Telehealth
What is telehealth?
Telehealth is a convenient way to have a consultation with a GP, medical specialist, nurse or allied health provider by videoconference, or in some situations, over the phone. This means you have the option to access healthcare from home, or another location, without going to a hospital or clinic.
Telehealth uses technology (like computers and mobile phones, with high-speed internet) to connect people in different locations. Appointments happen in a similar way as it would in person.
The TAC can pay for telehealth appointments for treatment related to your transport accident. Please contact us if you have any concerns about being unable to access the services you need related to your transport accident.
Why use telehealth?
Telehealth can make it easier and more convenient to attend appointments. This may mean:
- your travel and accommodation costs are reduced
- there is less disruption to your life (family, work, routine)
- you can bring together different people involved in your care
- you can access care during a time of disruption or crisis
- Your treating team will discuss options with you and identify the best approach based on your needs.
How do I arrange a telehealth appointment?
If you are interested in having an appointment using telehealth, speak to your provider to see if telehealth is an option for you. If it is, your provider will be able to make the booking for you.
What telehealth services will the TAC pay for?
We can pay for telehealth appointments with the following health providers to support your recovery from your transport accident:
- General practitioners
- Psychologists
- Medical specialists (including psychiatrists)
- Physiotherapists
- Chiropractors
- Dietitians
- Exercise physiologists
- Occupational therapists
- Osteopaths
- Podiatrists
- Nursing continence service providers
- Prosthetists and orthotists
- Social workers
- Speech pathologists
- Network pain management providers
- Outreach service providers (in special circumstances)
- Case management providers (in special circumstances)
Can I use telehealth for medico-legal examinations?
In most cases medico-legal examinations must be completed in person. However, in some circumstances videoconferencing may be appropriate. Please discuss your options with your medical examiner and legal representative.
Other FAQs
Can the TAC pay for telehealth for me if I am overseas and my provider is in Australia?
No, telehealth must be delivered to TAC clients in Australia (not overseas), even if the provider is delivering the service from Australia.
What technology do I need for telehealth?
Telehealth works well with videoconferencing platforms such as Microsoft Teams. Your provider will let you know the platform to use.
If you do not have access to videoconferencing, ask your provider if you have the option to have your appointment over the phone.
Will the TAC pay for my equipment (e.g. phone, iPad) or internet bill to facilitate telehealth?
No, the TAC cannot pay for equipment or internet services to support telehealth appointments.
How can I prepare to get the most out of my telehealth appointment?
The University of Queensland has developed a useful guide to telehealth and a factsheet to help people get the most from their telehealth appointment.
What help is available for those who need interpreting services?
If English is not your first language, we can help pay for interpreting services. An accredited interpreter can translate what you say to your doctor or health professional and help you understand what they are saying to you.
You can also access government resources including the Victorian Government's information on interpreting and translation services
Where can I learn more about telehealth?
Some information on this page comes from the Attending your appointment using telehealth factsheet by the Agency for Clinical Innovation.
