Telehealth has become a permanent and valued part of general practice in Australia. What started as a rapid expansion during the COVID-19 pandemic has continued as a genuine alternative for many patients who need GP care but can’t easily attend in person. At Camberwell Health in Camberwell, telehealth appointments are available for eligible patients and can be bulk billed under Medicare.
What Is a Telehealth Appointment?
A telehealth appointment is a GP consultation conducted remotely — either by phone or video call — rather than in person at the clinic. The clinical content of the appointment is the same: you can discuss symptoms, receive a diagnosis, get a referral, have a prescription issued, or talk through test results, all without leaving your home.
Phone consultations are more common in Australian general practice than video, though video is available where preferred and appropriate.
Is Telehealth Bulk Billed?
Telehealth consultations can be bulk billed under Medicare in many circumstances. Eligibility requirements apply — for example, the patient generally needs to have had an in-person appointment with the practice within the preceding 12 months for standard telehealth items (though exceptions apply in certain circumstances). Our reception team can confirm eligibility when you book.
When Is Telehealth a Good Option?
Telehealth works well for a broad range of consultations. It is particularly suited to:
- Discussing test results or specialist letters
- Renewing prescriptions for stable, ongoing conditions
- Mental health consultations, including initiating or reviewing a Mental Health Care Plan
- Follow-up appointments where no physical examination is required
- Sick certificates or medical clearances
- Discussing referrals
- Managing symptoms that can be assessed by description (such as a rash you can describe or photograph, or a cold)
- Consultations for patients who are housebound, elderly, or have mobility difficulties
- Parents seeking advice about an unwell child at home
When Is Telehealth Not Appropriate?
Telehealth is not a replacement for all GP care. Some consultations require a physical examination that simply cannot be replicated remotely. You should book an in-person appointment for:
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, or any symptoms that may indicate an emergency
- Physical examination of a lump, lesion, wound, or body system
- Procedures such as IUD insertion, iron infusions, immunisations, or ear syringing
- Skin checks
- Pathology collection
If you’re unsure whether telehealth is appropriate for your situation, call our reception team and they can help you decide which appointment type is right for you.
How to Join a Telehealth Appointment
When you book a telehealth appointment at Camberwell Health, our team will confirm whether your consultation will be by phone or video. For video appointments, you may receive a link to join the call at the scheduled time. For phone appointments, your GP will call you on the number you have registered with the clinic.
A few practical tips to make the most of your telehealth consultation:
- Find a quiet, private space where you can speak freely
- Have your Medicare card and any relevant documents or medication packaging nearby
- Write down any questions or concerns beforehand so you don’t forget them
- Ensure your phone is charged and the volume is turned up
- For video calls, check your internet connection ahead of time and make sure the camera is working
Prescriptions and Referrals
GPs can issue prescriptions electronically (eScripts) and send referrals digitally during a telehealth appointment. eScripts are sent as a QR code by SMS or email and can be taken to any pharmacy. This means you often don’t need to visit the clinic at all to receive a prescription or referral.
Booking a Telehealth Appointment at Camberwell Health
To book a telehealth appointment, visit HotDoc and select the telehealth option when booking, or call us on (03) 9882 0055. Our team will confirm your eligibility and set up the appointment. We’re open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 9am to 6pm, and Wednesday from 9am to 3pm.
This article is intended as general health information only. For personal medical advice, please consult your GP.