What To Use A Telehealth Consult For And When To Visit Your GP Physically?
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Overview
Healthcare access in Australia has changed over the years, with telehealth becoming a popular option for many patients. While telehealth works well for some concerns, some health issues still require a visit to a GP. Understanding when to use each option can help patients receive the right care at the right time.
Note: The content of this blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis, advice, or treatment.
What is a telehealth consultation?
A telehealth consultation allows patients to communicate with a doctor through a phone or video call, rather than going to a clinic in person. During the consultation, patients can discuss their symptoms, get medical advice, receive prescriptions, and obtain medical certificates or referrals when necessary. Telehealth services are widely used in Australia to make healthcare more convenient and accessible.
How common is telehealth in Australia?
Telehealth has now become a crucial part of Australia’s healthcare system. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Australian Government expanded Medicare telehealth services, enabling millions of Australians to access GP consultations remotely. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics1, 22.5% of Australians used telehealth services in 2024-25.
Telehealth vs in-person GP visits: What’s the difference?
| Feature | Telehealth consultation | In-person GP visit |
| Location | Speak with a doctor from home | Visit a clinic physically |
| Examination | No physical examination | Doctors can physically examine the patient |
| Convenience | Consult from your choice of location; reduced travel requirements | Allows for comprehensive physical examination and immediate diagnostic tests. |
| Suitable for | Minor issues, advice, follow-ups | Complex conditions, physical symptoms |
| Technology | Phone or video call | Face-to-face consultation |
Telehealth is suitable for simple or routine healthcare needs, while in-person GP visits are ideal when a doctor needs to examine a patient physically.
When is telehealth the best option?
Telehealth is often the most practical and convenient option when a physical examination is not required.
Common situations include:
- Discussing minor or early symptoms
- Prescription renewals
- Discussing test results
- Follow-up appointments
- Mental health conditions
- Managing chronic conditions
- Medical advice or second opinions
- Patients with limited mobility or living in remote areas
Common health issues you can discuss during a telehealth consult
Several daily health concerns can be safely addressed through telehealth.
Examples include:
- Allergies
- Headaches
- Cold and flu
- Minor infections
- Digestive issues
- Sleep problems
- General health advice
- Medication reviews
- Mild skin allergies
Benefits of using telehealth consultations
Telehealth has many practical benefits for patients.
- Convenient – Patients can speak with a doctor from home
- Time saving – No travel and no long waiting times
- Improved access – Helpful for people living in remote or rural areas
- Lower infection risk – Reduces the chance of spreading illnesses
- Flexible timings – Easier to schedule around work or other commitments
When should you visit a GP in person instead
While telehealth is beneficial, some health concerns still require a doctor to examine the patient in person. Physical examinations help doctors make accurate diagnoses.
Here are a few situations that require an in-person GP visit:
- Severe pain
- Injury
- Worsening symptoms
- Swelling or lumps
- Vaccinations
- Skin conditions that need examination
- Physical check-ups
- Diagnostic tests
Symptoms that require immediate in-person medical care
Some symptoms require urgent medical care and should not be managed through telehealth alone.
Seek immediate in-person care if you experience:
- Chest pain
- Breathing difficulties
- Heavy bleeding
- Signs of stroke
- Sudden weakness or numbness
- Severe abdominal pain
- Confusion or loss of consciousness
- Severe pain
In case of a medical emergency, call 000 or visit your nearest Emergency Department (ED) immediately.
Conditions that often need physical examination
Some medical conditions require a GP to assess the patient in person, including:
- Ear infections
- Persistent fever
- Abdominal pain
- Skin rashes or lesions
- Eye infections
- Lumps, swelling, or unusual growths
- Joint or muscle injuries
How doctors decide between telehealth and in-clinic visits
Doctors use their clinical judgement to decide if telehealth is appropriate. If a physical check-up is necessary, they may recommend visiting the clinic.
Factors doctors consider include:
- Patient’s medical history
- Type and severity of symptoms
- Risk of serious illness
- Need for tests or physical examination
- Whether visual assessment is sufficient
What happens during a telehealth consultation
A telehealth consultation is similar to a regular GP visit but conducted remotely.
Steps include:
- Booking the appointment online or via phone
- Joining the session via phone or video
- Discussing symptoms and medical history
- Getting medical advice or a diagnosis
- Receiving prescriptions, referrals, or certificates if required
Limitations of telehealth consultations
While telehealth is convenient, it does have a few limitations:
- No physical examination
- Some conditions may be difficult to assess remotely
- Some tests require clinic visits
- Some procedures cannot be performed
- Technology or internet problems
Tips for getting the most out of a telehealth appointment
A few simple steps can help you get the most out of your telehealth consultation:
- Jot down your symptoms and questions in advance
- Keep a list of your current medications handy
- Find a quiet and comfortable place for your session
- Keep your Medicare details ready
- Ensure you have a stable phone or internet connection
Can telehealth doctors provide prescriptions and medical certificates?
Telehealth doctors can provide prescriptions and medical certificates only when clinically appropriate and following a thorough medical assessment. Prescription of certain medications (such as S8 or high-risk drugs) may not be available via telehealth.
These may include:
- Specialist referrals
- Medical certificates for work or school
- Electronic prescriptions
- Follow-up care advice
- Pathology or imaging requests
The role of telehealth in modern healthcare
Telehealth now plays a key role in Australia’s healthcare system. It helps improve access to care for people in rural communities, people with mobility issues, or patients seeking timely medical advice. However, telehealth works best when used alongside traditional GP visits rather than replacing them entirely.
How Hola Health can help
Hola Health offers convenient access to online healthcare services for Australians who need prompt medical support.
With Hola Health, patients can:
- Consult a registered Australian GP via telehealth
- Receive electronic prescriptions
- Get specialist referrals
- Obtain medical certificates
- Access follow-up medical advice
Conclusion
Telehealth has made it easier for Australians to access healthcare from home. It is useful for managing minor illnesses, seeking medical advice, renewing prescriptions, and attending follow-up appointments without the need to travel to a clinic.
However, certain conditions still require an in-person GP visit, especially when a physical examination, diagnostic tests, or urgent medical care is needed. Understanding when to use telehealth and when to see a GP in person can help ensure patients receive timely and effective care.
Reference
Australian Bureau of Statistics - reference linkSee a Aussie GP online, available 24/7
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Disclaimer
This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not indicate that Hola Health provides all treatments or preventive measures mentioned. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000. Any medical topics discussed are intended to educate, not to imply availability through Hola Health.