Australia pledges millions to make telehealth appointments a permanent feature in the country’s healthcare system
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Australia pledges millions to make telehealth appointments a permanent feature in the country’s healthcare system
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused major changes in our day to day lifestyle as we cope with its impacts.
By now we are all used to the daily task of social distancing and the rise of an online presence that comes with it. This practice has given rise to the existence of virtual medical appointments, which has become the norm since the start of the pandemic.
For our dear members who are looking to get regular check-ups but are also remaining socially distant, especially now that the omicron variant is on the loose, we've got news for you!
Australia has pledged millions to make virtual medical appointments a permanent feature in our country's health system.
The federal government said that the service would be part of a $308.6 million spend.
Telehealth will be a permanent feature in Australia’s health system after the federal government pledges millions to improve healthcare services in the country. Credit: AP.
Health Minister Greg Hunt said that the move will take pressure off hospitals and will make healthcare accessible.
“Telehealth, rapid antigen testing, electronic prescriptions, home medicine delivery - they’re all about taking pressure off the hospitals, and supporting patients and providing access,” he said on Monday.
The initiative was also welcomed by healthcare workers, with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners expressing their support.
Royal Australian College of General Practitioners president Karen Price said: “Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic telehealth has proven to be a valuable complement to face-to-face care - it increased access to care for patients in need and no doubt saved lives.”
Dr Price also addressed the issue of GP shortage in regional and rural Australia, saying that the government should make this a top priority.
“Incentivising GPs in training to live and work outside of metropolitan areas can help improve access to high-quality care for communities in need,” she said.
Health Minister Greg Hunt said that the move will make healthcare services accessible to everyone. Credit: AAP.
The full breakdown of the $308.6 million funds is as follows:
- $106 million: The fund will be spent over four years to make virtual medical appointments permanent.
- $58.8 million: The fund will be used to extend rebates for mental health care through the Better Access scheme until December 2022.
- $77 million: The fund will be allocated to Medicare, mainly for adding benefits for health professionals to conduct vaccine suitability assessments at a patient’s residence without a GP present. The Medicare boost will also aim to ensure accessibility of vaccine or booster shots for people living in aged or disability care without needing to leave home.
- $25.6 million: The fund will be allocated to Australia's primary healthcare COVID-19 response.
- $41.2 million: The fund will be spent on recruiting GPs trained overseas to address the doctor shortages in rural and regional Australia.
Are you looking forward to this initiative? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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