Telehealth appointments: what to expect during a virtual visit

This blog is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice or diagnosis. If you have health concerns, consult an AHPRA-registered telehealth doctor or request a medical certificate online if clinically appropriate. Please note: Hola Health does not currently offer Mental Health Care Plans.

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Telehealth is transforming the way we receive healthcare by providing a simple and effective option to interact with doctors from home. Whether you require a diagnosis, prescription, doctor’s certificate online, or referral, virtual care reduce the need for in-person appointments. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect during a telehealth consultation, the advantages of employing virtual care, and how you can get prescriptions, medical certifications, and referrals from the comfort of your home. 

What happens in telehealth?

Telehealth is a healthcare method where individuals consult with medical professionals remotely utilising tools like online messaging, video calls, and phone conversations. A doctor can diagnose, prescribe medication, recommend a course of therapy, evaluate symptoms, and even refer for additional testing or imaging during a telehealth appointment. It makes healthcare more accessible without requiring in-person visits to clinics, which is particularly useful for follow-ups, routine consultations, and minor health issues. However, it may not be suitable for emergencies or conditions requiring a physical examination. 

How does a virtual appointment work?

A virtual appointment involves connecting with a healthcare provider via a secure online platform, either by video call, phone call, or chat. To begin, you’ll schedule an appointment with your doctor through a telehealth service. Before the appointment, you may need to fill out forms or provide your medical history online. During the appointment, you will talk about your symptoms, ask questions, and obtain a diagnosis or treatment plan. If required, the doctor may give medication or suggest additional testing. Following the visit, you may be able to obtain follow-up information or your prescription electronically. It is essential to use a trusted telehealth service that complies with data privacy regulations to protect your personal information.  

Why should I use virtual care?

Virtual care provides various benefits, making healthcare more accessible and convenient. Patients can receive care from the comfort of their homes, saving time and money on travel. It’s perfect for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and managing chronic disorders. Virtual care also gives patients access to specialists who may not be available locally, which helps to cut appointment wait times. Furthermore, it can reduce exposure to contagious infections, as you do not need to visit a crowded clinic or hospital. However, it has limitations, such as the inability to perform physical examinations or certain diagnostic tests, which may require an in-person visit. 

Benefits of telemedicine

Telemedicine has a number of advantages for both patients and professionals. Patients benefit from increased access to healthcare, especially those who live in distant places or have mobility issues. It also saves time by decreasing the necessity for in-person meetings. Providers can offer more flexible scheduling and reach a broader population of patients. Telehealth can enhance health outcomes by providing faster access to care, streamlining prescription and referral processes, and enabling continuous monitoring of chronic illnesses via remote instruments. 

What should I know before my telehealth visit?

Before your telehealth appointment, keep a few things in mind to guarantee a seamless experience: 

1. Ensure technology compatibility: Make sure your device is compatible with the telehealth platform (video call, phone call, etc.) and that your internet connection is reliable. 
2. Prepare your health information: Have any pertinent medical documents, symptoms, lab results, imaging reports or prescription lists ready to discuss. 
3. Select a quiet location: Choose a discreet, peaceful area with adequate lighting for the consultation. 
4. Know your insurance coverage: Check to see if your insurance covers telehealth services and confirm any associated expenses for the visit. 

What to expect during a virtual doctor appointment?

During a virtual medical appointment, you will communicate with your healthcare professional via video or phone. After checking in to your telehealth platform, the doctor will inquire about your medical history, present symptoms, and any concerns you may have. You may be requested to use the camera to describe or demonstrate any physical symptoms (for example, a rash or an injury). The doctor will next analyse your problem, make a diagnosis, and propose treatment options. This could include medicines, advice on how to manage your symptoms, or recommendations on whether additional testing is required. Following the consultation, the doctor will make a follow-up plan and send you any medications or referrals online. 

Getting your prescription online

In today’s digital world, getting a prescription doesn’t always require an in-person visit to the doctor. With telehealth services, you can consult with a doctor online and receive a prescription quickly and conveniently. Whether it’s for a common illness, ongoing treatment, or a repeat prescription, telehealth makes managing your health simpler and more efficient. Ensure the pharmacy verifies the prescription before dispensing medications to maintain safety and compliance. 

Benefits:

Virtual appointments provide quick and convenient access to medication without the need for a physical visit to the clinic. You can acquire prescriptions for a variety of health issues, from minor diseases to chronic disease management, all from the comfort of your home. This procedure is especially beneficial for people who require repeat medicines or continuing treatment regimens. 

Steps to acquire a prescription online:

1. Schedule a telehealth consultation. You can start here. 
2. Discuss your symptoms and medical history with your doctor. 
3. If necessary, the doctor will prescribe the prescription. 
4. Receive the prescription electronically, which you may either pick up from your pharmacy or have delivered. 

Getting your doctor’s certificate online

Need a doctor’s certificate online for employment, education, or other reasons? Telehealth allows you to receive one quickly and conveniently, if deemed appropriate based on the doctor’s professional judgement, eliminating the need for an in-person visit. Whether it’s a sick note for a few days off or a medical certificate for a longer amount of time, telehealth provides a quick and easy solution to handle this. 

Benefits:

A doctor’s certificate, often required for work or school, can be easily obtained through a virtual consultation. This eliminates the need for an in-person visit, saving time and effort. Whether you need a sick note or a medical certificate for leave, telehealth makes the process quick and convenient. 

Here are the steps required to receive a doctor’s certificate:

1. Choose your appointment type. 
2. Explain the reason for your certificate request (e.g., illness, injury). 
3. The doctor will assess your condition and determine if a certificate is needed. 
4. You will receive the certificate electronically, which you can print or forward to your employer or school. 

Getting your referrals online

Telehealth referrals provide a simple and effective option to receive the specialised treatment required without the inconvenience of in-person appointments. Telehealth makes it easier and faster to acquire referrals for X-rays, specialist consultations, and additional diagnostic tests. 

Benefits:

Telehealth referrals are swift and efficient, particularly for testing such as X-rays, specialist consultations, and diagnostics. It saves time and eliminates the need for an in-person visit, making it easier to receive specialised care. You can continue your healthcare journey without delay, which will improve your entire treatment experience. 

Steps required to obtain a referral:

1. Schedule a telehealth consultation with your doctor. 
2. Discuss your symptoms and the need for a referral. 
3. If necessary, the doctor will provide the referral electronically. 
4. You can directly schedule the appointment with the specialist or imaging centre. 

Telehealth is a convenient and efficient option to obtain medical treatment without leaving your house. From virtual consultations to prescriptions and referrals, the convenience of online healthcare saves you money and time. It complements rather than replaces in-person care, ensuring patients receive the most appropriate treatment for their needs. With the benefits of fast access, privacy, and ease of use, telehealth is the future of healthcare, so make the most of your virtual visits and experience healthcare on your terms. 

How Hola Health may be able to help

Hola Health is an Australian telehealth platform that connects you with registered doctors and nurse practitioners — from the comfort of your home, at a time that suits you. Depending on your situation, a Hola Health clinician may be able to help with:

• 24/7 General medical advice via telehealth doctor consult — talk through symptoms or health concerns with a registered doctor or medical practitioner
• Medical certificate online — for work or personal leave, when clinically appropriate
• Referrals to specialists – or in-person services when needed
• Online prescriptions — at a clinician’s discretion and where clinically suitable
• Pathology or imaging requests — when assessed as appropriate by your treating clinician

Hola Health clinicians are AHPRA-registered Doctors and medical practitioners in Australia. They will always recommend an in-person consultation, specialist referral, or emergency care if that is in your best interest.

Note: Telehealth is not suitable for all conditions. Hola Health does not replace your regular GP, specialist, or emergency services. If you are unsure whether telehealth is right for your situation, we recommend speaking with your usual healthcare provider. In emergencies, call 000.