In recent years, the importance of accessible healthcare has become more apparent than ever.

With the rise of telehealth consultations, individuals worldwide now have access to essential medical services from the comfort of their homes.

Telehealth has revolutionised the healthcare industry, making it more convenient, efficient, and cost-effective for patients to receive medical advice and treatment.

This technology has made it possible for individuals with difficulty accessing healthcare due to geographical location, physical disabilities, or financial limitations to receive medical care without leaving their homes.

However, it's worth noting that while telehealth provides access to GPs, not everyone is pleased with it, and some would rather see a doctor in person.

That’s why it’s unsurprising that Woolworths is in hot water after announcing that it will offer telehealth consultations.

Woolworths faced backlash after introducing its newest telehealth service. Credit: Shutterstock.

You read that right, folks! In a bizarre turn of events, Woolworths is reaching out to a larger slice of the wellness market by introducing an online healthcare platform called HealthyLife.

This will enable customers to connect with general practitioners (GPs) nationwide through the help of Global Health, a provider contracted by Woolworths.

HealthyLife’s General Manager for Health and Nutrition, Sarah Gray, said: 'You think of the times when you can't see your GP, you can't get in with your regular GP or you are too unwell to leave the house, you can now access this really quickly and conveniently.’

The new service comes with certain fees that depend on the type of consultation. For example, patients will be charged $25 for a medical certificate, $45 for a standard consultation and $115 for dietitians or nutritionists.

However, unlike a regular GP visit, customers won’t be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Retail Analyst Steve Kulmar believes this latest move is part of Woolworths' strategy to make its way into an even larger and more lucrative market: chemist and pharmacy.

Unsurprisingly, customers expressed their dissatisfaction online over the new service and its associated costs.

One person wrote: 'So I would imagine some advice given would suggest purchasing products at Woolies. A supermarket should not be employing doctors to give medical advice.'

'Probably end up being consulted by a machine anyway. Woolworths have demonstrated they prefer machines over human contact by opening less human manned tills and focus on self-serve tills,' another speculated.

A third questioned: 'How can you diagnose something over the phone? No rebates?'

'Corporate greed at its finest! This is ridiculous!'

Doctor Nicole Higgins from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners criticised Woolworths’ move, claiming it was an opportunity to make money from people's health care.

'Interestingly, they are charging more than what the gap fee is to see your GP', she said.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is now offering telehealth consultations through its digital health platform HealthyLife, in a move criticised by doctors.
• The service allows customers to connect with general practitioners nationwide, with appointments starting at $25 for a medical certificate, $45 for a standard consult, and $115 for dietitians or nutritionists.
• Critics argue that the supermarket is trying to make money from people's health care and express concerns about the quality of medical advice through telehealth consultations.
• Woolworths stated that the service is not designed to replace customers' usual GPs and that patients will not be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Members, it’s clear that this move by Woolworths has raised some red flags for customers. As such, it’s important to remember that if you ever have any medical concerns or questions, you should always consult a qualified medical professional.

An infographic summarising the reminders you need to know when seeking a telehealth consultation service. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

If you ever require medical advice or services, make sure to weigh up all of your options and research different healthcare providers in your area.

Always remember to check if there are any first-time patient offers and discounts for seniors.

Have you ever had a telehealth consultation? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments down below!

 

[Suzanne rose]

My doctor offers telehealth as long as you been in person to the practice in the last 12 months.

This works well if I only need a prescription or if I'm too sick to go in.

Most doctors offer this and if your doctor bulk bills then they will bulk bill for this as well.

My son was really sick last week with a bad flu worst than when he had covid . Because he had 3 days off work he needed a doctors certificate, due to flu symptoms he couldn't go in and as he hasn't needed to see a doctor in over 12 months he couldn't use the telehealth option.

He managed to get one on line with an certificate within seconds .

To me they never examined him really didn't ask questions it was almost like they were not even doctors ! So what is even the point of a Doctors certificate these days ?
Anyone can get one

 

[Thecheesequeen]

Stay in your lane, Woolworths! You’re supposed to sell products, not health advice. How does this tie in with Medicare? No rebates or bulk billing, obviously. And who are the doctors who’ll be working for Woolworths? Surely this can’t be legal?

 

[rehandra]

In recent years, the importance of accessible healthcare has become more apparent than ever.

With the rise of telehealth consultations, individuals worldwide now have access to essential medical services from the comfort of their homes.

Telehealth has revolutionised the healthcare industry, making it more convenient, efficient, and cost-effective for patients to receive medical advice and treatment.

This technology has made it possible for individuals with difficulty accessing healthcare due to geographical location, physical disabilities, or financial limitations to receive medical care without leaving their homes.

However, it's worth noting that while telehealth provides access to GPs, not everyone is pleased with it, and some would rather see a doctor in person.

That’s why it’s unsurprising that Woolworths is in hot water after announcing that it will offer telehealth consultations.

View attachment 16082

Woolworths faced backlash after introducing its newest telehealth service. Credit: Shutterstock.

You read that right, folks! In a bizarre turn of events, Woolworths is reaching out to a larger slice of the wellness market by introducing an online healthcare platform called HealthyLife.

This will enable customers to connect with general practitioners (GPs) nationwide through the help of Global Health, a provider contracted by Woolworths.

HealthyLife’s General Manager for Health and Nutrition, Sarah Gray, said: 'You think of the times when you can't see your GP, you can't get in with your regular GP or you are too unwell to leave the house, you can now access this really quickly and conveniently.’

The new service comes with certain fees that depend on the type of consultation. For example, patients will be charged $25 for a medical certificate, $45 for a standard consultation and $115 for dietitians or nutritionists.

However, unlike a regular GP visit, customers won’t be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Retail Analyst Steve Kulmar believes this latest move is part of Woolworths' strategy to make its way into an even larger and more lucrative market: chemist and pharmacy.

Unsurprisingly, customers expressed their dissatisfaction online over the new service and its associated costs.

One person wrote: 'So I would imagine some advice given would suggest purchasing products at Woolies. A supermarket should not be employing doctors to give medical advice.'

'Probably end up being consulted by a machine anyway. Woolworths have demonstrated they prefer machines over human contact by opening less human manned tills and focus on self-serve tills,' another speculated.

A third questioned: 'How can you diagnose something over the phone? No rebates?'

'Corporate greed at its finest! This is ridiculous!'

Doctor Nicole Higgins from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners criticised Woolworths’ move, claiming it was an opportunity to make money from people's health care.

'Interestingly, they are charging more than what the gap fee is to see your GP', she said.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is now offering telehealth consultations through its digital health platform HealthyLife, in a move criticised by doctors.
• The service allows customers to connect with general practitioners nationwide, with appointments starting at $25 for a medical certificate, $45 for a standard consult, and $115 for dietitians or nutritionists.
• Critics argue that the supermarket is trying to make money from people's health care and express concerns about the quality of medical advice through telehealth consultations.
• Woolworths stated that the service is not designed to replace customers' usual GPs and that patients will not be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Members, it’s clear that this move by Woolworths has raised some red flags for customers. As such, it’s important to remember that if you ever have any medical concerns or questions, you should always consult a qualified medical professional.

View attachment 16081

An infographic summarising the reminders you need to know when seeking a telehealth consultation service. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

If you ever require medical advice or services, make sure to weigh up all of your options and research different healthcare providers in your area.

Always remember to check if there are any first-time patient offers and discounts for seniors.

Have you ever had a telehealth consultation? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments down below!

I am not interested in this at all. There are other services already available where doctors will come to your home...and you are bulk billed.
Supermarkets stick to what you know.

 

[Ricci]

I have a telehealth appointment booked for today, it was at my surgeons suggestion as he didn't want me to drive for four hours round trip just to get test results. Works for me!

 

[Pat T]

In recent years, the importance of accessible healthcare has become more apparent than ever.

With the rise of telehealth consultations, individuals worldwide now have access to essential medical services from the comfort of their homes.

Telehealth has revolutionised the healthcare industry, making it more convenient, efficient, and cost-effective for patients to receive medical advice and treatment.

This technology has made it possible for individuals with difficulty accessing healthcare due to geographical location, physical disabilities, or financial limitations to receive medical care without leaving their homes.

However, it's worth noting that while telehealth provides access to GPs, not everyone is pleased with it, and some would rather see a doctor in person.

That’s why it’s unsurprising that Woolworths is in hot water after announcing that it will offer telehealth consultations.

View attachment 16082

Woolworths faced backlash after introducing its newest telehealth service. Credit: Shutterstock.

You read that right, folks! In a bizarre turn of events, Woolworths is reaching out to a larger slice of the wellness market by introducing an online healthcare platform called HealthyLife.

This will enable customers to connect with general practitioners (GPs) nationwide through the help of Global Health, a provider contracted by Woolworths.

HealthyLife’s General Manager for Health and Nutrition, Sarah Gray, said: 'You think of the times when you can't see your GP, you can't get in with your regular GP or you are too unwell to leave the house, you can now access this really quickly and conveniently.’

The new service comes with certain fees that depend on the type of consultation. For example, patients will be charged $25 for a medical certificate, $45 for a standard consultation and $115 for dietitians or nutritionists.

However, unlike a regular GP visit, customers won’t be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Retail Analyst Steve Kulmar believes this latest move is part of Woolworths' strategy to make its way into an even larger and more lucrative market: chemist and pharmacy.

Unsurprisingly, customers expressed their dissatisfaction online over the new service and its associated costs.

One person wrote: 'So I would imagine some advice given would suggest purchasing products at Woolies. A supermarket should not be employing doctors to give medical advice.'

'Probably end up being consulted by a machine anyway. Woolworths have demonstrated they prefer machines over human contact by opening less human manned tills and focus on self-serve tills,' another speculated.

A third questioned: 'How can you diagnose something over the phone? No rebates?'

'Corporate greed at its finest! This is ridiculous!'

Doctor Nicole Higgins from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners criticised Woolworths’ move, claiming it was an opportunity to make money from people's health care.

'Interestingly, they are charging more than what the gap fee is to see your GP', she said.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is now offering telehealth consultations through its digital health platform HealthyLife, in a move criticised by doctors.
• The service allows customers to connect with general practitioners nationwide, with appointments starting at $25 for a medical certificate, $45 for a standard consult, and $115 for dietitians or nutritionists.
• Critics argue that the supermarket is trying to make money from people's health care and express concerns about the quality of medical advice through telehealth consultations.
• Woolworths stated that the service is not designed to replace customers' usual GPs and that patients will not be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Members, it’s clear that this move by Woolworths has raised some red flags for customers. As such, it’s important to remember that if you ever have any medical concerns or questions, you should always consult a qualified medical professional.

View attachment 16081

An infographic summarising the reminders you need to know when seeking a telehealth consultation service. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

If you ever require medical advice or services, make sure to weigh up all of your options and research different healthcare providers in your area.

Always remember to check if there are any first-time patient offers and discounts for seniors.

Have you ever had a telehealth consultation? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments down below!

Fortunately never needed that service but our medical centre does provide it. My concern is that the governments spend $millions annually on health. If they can’t get it right how can a supermarket who can’t even keep their shelves full?

 

[Juliethor]

I think this is dangerous as they don't know you well enough to make a diagnosis and management of your health.

 

[elaine41]

I have a concern with who would I be talking to. They say they are linked to Global Health; does that mean the "doctor" could be overseas & not even in Australia? How do we know the qualifications of this "doctor"? If a prescription is needed, how do we get that?
Definitely not for me. I will keep going to my local GP & keep my money local.

 

[Stanier123]

In recent years, the importance of accessible healthcare has become more apparent than ever.

With the rise of telehealth consultations, individuals worldwide now have access to essential medical services from the comfort of their homes.

Telehealth has revolutionised the healthcare industry, making it more convenient, efficient, and cost-effective for patients to receive medical advice and treatment.

This technology has made it possible for individuals with difficulty accessing healthcare due to geographical location, physical disabilities, or financial limitations to receive medical care without leaving their homes.

However, it's worth noting that while telehealth provides access to GPs, not everyone is pleased with it, and some would rather see a doctor in person.

That’s why it’s unsurprising that Woolworths is in hot water after announcing that it will offer telehealth consultations.

View attachment 16082

Woolworths faced backlash after introducing its newest telehealth service. Credit: Shutterstock.

You read that right, folks! In a bizarre turn of events, Woolworths is reaching out to a larger slice of the wellness market by introducing an online healthcare platform called HealthyLife.

This will enable customers to connect with general practitioners (GPs) nationwide through the help of Global Health, a provider contracted by Woolworths.

HealthyLife’s General Manager for Health and Nutrition, Sarah Gray, said: 'You think of the times when you can't see your GP, you can't get in with your regular GP or you are too unwell to leave the house, you can now access this really quickly and conveniently.’

The new service comes with certain fees that depend on the type of consultation. For example, patients will be charged $25 for a medical certificate, $45 for a standard consultation and $115 for dietitians or nutritionists.

However, unlike a regular GP visit, customers won’t be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Retail Analyst Steve Kulmar believes this latest move is part of Woolworths' strategy to make its way into an even larger and more lucrative market: chemist and pharmacy.

Unsurprisingly, customers expressed their dissatisfaction online over the new service and its associated costs.

One person wrote: 'So I would imagine some advice given would suggest purchasing products at Woolies. A supermarket should not be employing doctors to give medical advice.'

'Probably end up being consulted by a machine anyway. Woolworths have demonstrated they prefer machines over human contact by opening less human manned tills and focus on self-serve tills,' another speculated.

A third questioned: 'How can you diagnose something over the phone? No rebates?'

'Corporate greed at its finest! This is ridiculous!'

Doctor Nicole Higgins from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners criticised Woolworths’ move, claiming it was an opportunity to make money from people's health care.

'Interestingly, they are charging more than what the gap fee is to see your GP', she said.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is now offering telehealth consultations through its digital health platform HealthyLife, in a move criticised by doctors.
• The service allows customers to connect with general practitioners nationwide, with appointments starting at $25 for a medical certificate, $45 for a standard consult, and $115 for dietitians or nutritionists.
• Critics argue that the supermarket is trying to make money from people's health care and express concerns about the quality of medical advice through telehealth consultations.
• Woolworths stated that the service is not designed to replace customers' usual GPs and that patients will not be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Members, it’s clear that this move by Woolworths has raised some red flags for customers. As such, it’s important to remember that if you ever have any medical concerns or questions, you should always consult a qualified medical professional.

View attachment 16081

An infographic summarising the reminders you need to know when seeking a telehealth consultation service. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

If you ever require medical advice or services, make sure to weigh up all of your options and research different healthcare providers in your area.

Always remember to check if there are any first-time patient offers and discounts for seniors.

Have you ever had a telehealth consultation? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments down below!

Guess and Prescribe (GPS) with Woolworths Reward points. Can’t wait!

 

[Pink lion]

I had a horrendous time with doctors of a bulk billing service who refused to give me antibiotics during a time when I desperately needed them. I could prick my fingers arm etc and it came out "white" or as black as a black grape. Blood is red in color. (I showed them) It was like trying to have an intelligent conversation with a cardboard box.

I gave up on the hillside hippocrats. Then months later, as I had myself a telehealth consultation as bloodletting wasn't resolving it. I fibbed a bit and said I had been travelling and had picked up an infection and needed a script for it. I got one immediately. I had another rpt script as the condition remained, and I was told I needed to go to a G.P. I was in a dilemma again, until the Lismore flood disaster, when St Johns Ambulance treated me, and they made sure I had two follow up scripts.

My own personal experience is that if you cannot find another option, and are in definite need of immediate assistance, then telehealth is a definite option. However, nothing beats a G.P. if you can find one, or afford to see one that is.

It is my belief that the government health minister and their entire staff should be placed in the stocks in a public park for a day. With large crates of rotten tomatoes placed in front of them, for further public comment about what they knowingly do to so many, by the removal of our Nations bulk billing services... This is just my own opinion of course.

 

[janj]

no won't be using it

 

[Staffordshire Whippet]

TING! TING!
"PRICE CHECK ON CHEST PAINS, AISLE 2?"

 

[Judith Feldman]

If this were a free service for the underprivileged or even for those who find that most services have closed bookings for new patients I may think it OK. But this seems to be a cynical attention-seeking effort to corner or horn into the medical market.

 

[gollywog]

Oh for god sakes!!! What next, what is the world coming to???

 

[lizclarke]

There is nothing wrong with telehealth services. We have had teleheath in Australia for many many years. There are millions in Australia that can not access health care at all.

Global health is also Australian owned and a publicly listed company

 

[I'm Mal]

In recent years, the importance of accessible healthcare has become more apparent than ever.

With the rise of telehealth consultations, individuals worldwide now have access to essential medical services from the comfort of their homes.

Telehealth has revolutionised the healthcare industry, making it more convenient, efficient, and cost-effective for patients to receive medical advice and treatment.

This technology has made it possible for individuals with difficulty accessing healthcare due to geographical location, physical disabilities, or financial limitations to receive medical care without leaving their homes.

However, it's worth noting that while telehealth provides access to GPs, not everyone is pleased with it, and some would rather see a doctor in person.

That’s why it’s unsurprising that Woolworths is in hot water after announcing that it will offer telehealth consultations.

View attachment 16082

Woolworths faced backlash after introducing its newest telehealth service. Credit: Shutterstock.

You read that right, folks! In a bizarre turn of events, Woolworths is reaching out to a larger slice of the wellness market by introducing an online healthcare platform called HealthyLife.

This will enable customers to connect with general practitioners (GPs) nationwide through the help of Global Health, a provider contracted by Woolworths.

HealthyLife’s General Manager for Health and Nutrition, Sarah Gray, said: 'You think of the times when you can't see your GP, you can't get in with your regular GP or you are too unwell to leave the house, you can now access this really quickly and conveniently.’

The new service comes with certain fees that depend on the type of consultation. For example, patients will be charged $25 for a medical certificate, $45 for a standard consultation and $115 for dietitians or nutritionists.

However, unlike a regular GP visit, customers won’t be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Retail Analyst Steve Kulmar believes this latest move is part of Woolworths' strategy to make its way into an even larger and more lucrative market: chemist and pharmacy.

Unsurprisingly, customers expressed their dissatisfaction online over the new service and its associated costs.

One person wrote: 'So I would imagine some advice given would suggest purchasing products at Woolies. A supermarket should not be employing doctors to give medical advice.'

'Probably end up being consulted by a machine anyway. Woolworths have demonstrated they prefer machines over human contact by opening less human manned tills and focus on self-serve tills,' another speculated.

A third questioned: 'How can you diagnose something over the phone? No rebates?'

'Corporate greed at its finest! This is ridiculous!'

Doctor Nicole Higgins from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners criticised Woolworths’ move, claiming it was an opportunity to make money from people's health care.

'Interestingly, they are charging more than what the gap fee is to see your GP', she said.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is now offering telehealth consultations through its digital health platform HealthyLife, in a move criticised by doctors.
• The service allows customers to connect with general practitioners nationwide, with appointments starting at $25 for a medical certificate, $45 for a standard consult, and $115 for dietitians or nutritionists.
• Critics argue that the supermarket is trying to make money from people's health care and express concerns about the quality of medical advice through telehealth consultations.
• Woolworths stated that the service is not designed to replace customers' usual GPs and that patients will not be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Members, it’s clear that this move by Woolworths has raised some red flags for customers. As such, it’s important to remember that if you ever have any medical concerns or questions, you should always consult a qualified medical professional.

View attachment 16081

An infographic summarising the reminders you need to know when seeking a telehealth consultation service. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

If you ever require medical advice or services, make sure to weigh up all of your options and research different healthcare providers in your area.

Always remember to check if there are any first-time patient offers and discounts for seniors.

Have you ever had a telehealth consultation? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments down below!

Whilst it must be understood that Woolworths is a business and is rightfully always on the lookout for a competitive edge, there needs to be boundaries. It was interesting that they attempted to take on Bunnings with their Masters hardware business but that failed miserably. It is now clear that they want to enter the health market. The obvious targets for competition are Chemist Warehouse, Terry White and Priceline. I find myself wondering if this bid will go the same way as Masters. If it does then the only conclusion seems t be that Woolworths is driven by corporate greed and not adept at capturing lessons learned.

 

[freedy50]

In recent years, the importance of accessible healthcare has become more apparent than ever.

With the rise of telehealth consultations, individuals worldwide now have access to essential medical services from the comfort of their homes.

Telehealth has revolutionised the healthcare industry, making it more convenient, efficient, and cost-effective for patients to receive medical advice and treatment.

This technology has made it possible for individuals with difficulty accessing healthcare due to geographical location, physical disabilities, or financial limitations to receive medical care without leaving their homes.

However, it's worth noting that while telehealth provides access to GPs, not everyone is pleased with it, and some would rather see a doctor in person.

That’s why it’s unsurprising that Woolworths is in hot water after announcing that it will offer telehealth consultations.

View attachment 16082

Woolworths faced backlash after introducing its newest telehealth service. Credit: Shutterstock.

You read that right, folks! In a bizarre turn of events, Woolworths is reaching out to a larger slice of the wellness market by introducing an online healthcare platform called HealthyLife.

This will enable customers to connect with general practitioners (GPs) nationwide through the help of Global Health, a provider contracted by Woolworths.

HealthyLife’s General Manager for Health and Nutrition, Sarah Gray, said: 'You think of the times when you can't see your GP, you can't get in with your regular GP or you are too unwell to leave the house, you can now access this really quickly and conveniently.’

The new service comes with certain fees that depend on the type of consultation. For example, patients will be charged $25 for a medical certificate, $45 for a standard consultation and $115 for dietitians or nutritionists.

However, unlike a regular GP visit, customers won’t be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Retail Analyst Steve Kulmar believes this latest move is part of Woolworths' strategy to make its way into an even larger and more lucrative market: chemist and pharmacy.

Unsurprisingly, customers expressed their dissatisfaction online over the new service and its associated costs.

One person wrote: 'So I would imagine some advice given would suggest purchasing products at Woolies. A supermarket should not be employing doctors to give medical advice.'

'Probably end up being consulted by a machine anyway. Woolworths have demonstrated they prefer machines over human contact by opening less human manned tills and focus on self-serve tills,' another speculated.

A third questioned: 'How can you diagnose something over the phone? No rebates?'

'Corporate greed at its finest! This is ridiculous!'

Doctor Nicole Higgins from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners criticised Woolworths’ move, claiming it was an opportunity to make money from people's health care.

'Interestingly, they are charging more than what the gap fee is to see your GP', she said.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is now offering telehealth consultations through its digital health platform HealthyLife, in a move criticised by doctors.
• The service allows customers to connect with general practitioners nationwide, with appointments starting at $25 for a medical certificate, $45 for a standard consult, and $115 for dietitians or nutritionists.
• Critics argue that the supermarket is trying to make money from people's health care and express concerns about the quality of medical advice through telehealth consultations.
• Woolworths stated that the service is not designed to replace customers' usual GPs and that patients will not be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Members, it’s clear that this move by Woolworths has raised some red flags for customers. As such, it’s important to remember that if you ever have any medical concerns or questions, you should always consult a qualified medical professional.

View attachment 16081

An infographic summarising the reminders you need to know when seeking a telehealth consultation service. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

If you ever require medical advice or services, make sure to weigh up all of your options and research different healthcare providers in your area.

Always remember to check if there are any first-time patient offers and discounts for seniors.

Have you ever had a telehealth consultation? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments down below!

Hope you get points with it?
And if you go on self serve it could also do an x-ray.

 

[Pink lion]

To me it the issue still reads, as a way for Government to avoid supplementing bulk billing and to dismiss the issue into the public sector. Woolworths seem to be offering a service that still requires a person to supply up-front costs, but for a limited health service.

The online Professional is not able to visually look at the issue except by photographs and make an informed decision, and so the advice must therefore be slightly flawed.

This is a similar thing to communicating online to a data retrieval system, where an EXTREMLY limited amount of helpful information, is able to be supplied by chat bots.

Having said this, it is rare that a doctor who doesn't know your issue, will prescribe a thing without blood test confirmation. It's usually about another weeks wait minimum after the first wait for the initial visit, before anything at all is prescribed to help us.

Because of this, it is a tricky one, as at least we get immediate service. Personally, however I still reckon BULK BILLING with a good G.P (not with the hillside Hippocrates) for me is the best answer. This is my last comment on this topic

 

[Marj53]

I have had a few telehealth appointments with my GP when I couldn't get into the practice. That's fine if with your own GP but not someone who doesn't know me.

 

[Catherines]

In recent years, the importance of accessible healthcare has become more apparent than ever.

With the rise of telehealth consultations, individuals worldwide now have access to essential medical services from the comfort of their homes.

Telehealth has revolutionised the healthcare industry, making it more convenient, efficient, and cost-effective for patients to receive medical advice and treatment.

This technology has made it possible for individuals with difficulty accessing healthcare due to geographical location, physical disabilities, or financial limitations to receive medical care without leaving their homes.

However, it's worth noting that while telehealth provides access to GPs, not everyone is pleased with it, and some would rather see a doctor in person.

That’s why it’s unsurprising that Woolworths is in hot water after announcing that it will offer telehealth consultations.

View attachment 16082

Woolworths faced backlash after introducing its newest telehealth service. Credit: Shutterstock.

You read that right, folks! In a bizarre turn of events, Woolworths is reaching out to a larger slice of the wellness market by introducing an online healthcare platform called HealthyLife.

This will enable customers to connect with general practitioners (GPs) nationwide through the help of Global Health, a provider contracted by Woolworths.

HealthyLife’s General Manager for Health and Nutrition, Sarah Gray, said: 'You think of the times when you can't see your GP, you can't get in with your regular GP or you are too unwell to leave the house, you can now access this really quickly and conveniently.’

The new service comes with certain fees that depend on the type of consultation. For example, patients will be charged $25 for a medical certificate, $45 for a standard consultation and $115 for dietitians or nutritionists.

However, unlike a regular GP visit, customers won’t be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Retail Analyst Steve Kulmar believes this latest move is part of Woolworths' strategy to make its way into an even larger and more lucrative market: chemist and pharmacy.

Unsurprisingly, customers expressed their dissatisfaction online over the new service and its associated costs.

One person wrote: 'So I would imagine some advice given would suggest purchasing products at Woolies. A supermarket should not be employing doctors to give medical advice.'

'Probably end up being consulted by a machine anyway. Woolworths have demonstrated they prefer machines over human contact by opening less human manned tills and focus on self-serve tills,' another speculated.

A third questioned: 'How can you diagnose something over the phone? No rebates?'

'Corporate greed at its finest! This is ridiculous!'

Doctor Nicole Higgins from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners criticised Woolworths’ move, claiming it was an opportunity to make money from people's health care.

'Interestingly, they are charging more than what the gap fee is to see your GP', she said.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is now offering telehealth consultations through its digital health platform HealthyLife, in a move criticised by doctors.
• The service allows customers to connect with general practitioners nationwide, with appointments starting at $25 for a medical certificate, $45 for a standard consult, and $115 for dietitians or nutritionists.
• Critics argue that the supermarket is trying to make money from people's health care and express concerns about the quality of medical advice through telehealth consultations.
• Woolworths stated that the service is not designed to replace customers' usual GPs and that patients will not be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Members, it’s clear that this move by Woolworths has raised some red flags for customers. As such, it’s important to remember that if you ever have any medical concerns or questions, you should always consult a qualified medical professional.

View attachment 16081

An infographic summarising the reminders you need to know when seeking a telehealth consultation service. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

If you ever require medical advice or services, make sure to weigh up all of your options and research different healthcare providers in your area.

Always remember to check if there are any first-time patient offers and discounts for seniors.

Have you ever had a telehealth consultation? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments down below!