Video-conference examinations

Using a video conference

A telehealth video-conference is a clinical examination performed via a video-conferencing platform, where the client and consulting specialist are not in the same physical location.

The TAC and independent medical examiners must consider the appropriateness of this mode of service delivery for each client on a case-by-case basis, i.e. the principles and considerations of good clinical care continue to be essential in telehealth services.

All telehealth services require prior approval from the TAC and must be consented to by the client and the independent medical examiner.

Independent medical examiners are responsible for delivering telehealth services in accordance with the principles of professional conduct and the relevant professional and practice guidelines to ensure that all care is taken to ensure the privacy, confidentiality, safety, appropriateness and effectiveness of the service.

If the medical examination does not go ahead for any reason, it is important that you contact the TAC immediately so we can reschedule your appointment.

How a video appointment works

The video appointment will run similar to a face-to-face appointment. However, it uses technology (like computers and mobile phones) to connect you with the IME at a different location to you.

If you are attending a video appointment remotely (e.g. from your home), you will receive details from the provider with the information you need to connect to the video-conference. In most instances, the IME or their medicolegal representative will send you instructions in an email with a link to the session. They may also contact you prior to the appointment to arrange a test of your internet connectivity to ensure you can connect to the video-conference service successfully.

Five minutes before your appointment, follow the instructions to join your video call online. You will see your IME on the computer screen and will be able to talk to them as you would in a face-to-face appointment.

The IME will follow the same process as a face-to-face appointment. As with face-to-face consultations, no-one (including you or the IME) may record the consultation unless consent is obtained from the other party.

Is a telehealth video-conference right for me?

To determine if telehealth video-conferences are right for you, please discuss this option with your TAC case manager. Some of the considerations will include:

Client safety
Client clinical need
Clinical effectiveness
Client preference
Is an interpreter or support person required?

What do I need for the video-conference session?

The essential IT requirements are:

Internet connectivity
Device or computer (with camera, speaker and microphone)
Internet browser: Google Chrome

To help with a successful video-conference:

Ensure your device is fully charged.
Use a quiet, well lit room.
Don’t sit with your back to a window as the light can flood the camera and you won’t be seen.
Maintain your privacy if others are nearby (a room with a door that can be closed if you need to).
If you would like a friend or family member to be in attendance, you should contact the TAC beforehand. We will discuss this with the IME and advise you if it is appropriate.
If a friend or family member is permitted to be in the room, they must not interfere or obstruct the medical examination and should not attempt to answer questions asked by the IME.
Wear suitable clothing and footwear that will assist the IME to assess your physical condition.


Video-conference examinations Using a video conference A telehealth video-conference is a clinical examination performed via a video-conferencing platform, where the client and consulting specialist are not in the same physical location. The TAC and independent medical examiners must consider the appropriateness of this mode of service delivery for each client on a case-by-case basis, i.e. the principles and considerations of good clinical care continue to be essential in telehealth services. All telehealth services require prior approval from the TAC and must be consented to by the client and the independent medical examiner. Independent medical examiners are responsible for delivering telehealth services in accordance with the principles of professional conduct and the relevant professional and practice guidelines to ensure that all care is taken to ensure the privacy, confidentiality, safety, appropriateness and effectiveness of the service. If the medical examination does not go ahead for any reason, it is important that you contact the TAC immediately so we can reschedule your appointment. How a video appointment works The video appointment will run similar to a face-to-face appointment. However, it uses technology (like computers and mobile phones) to connect you with the IME at a different location to you. If you are attending a video appointment remotely (e.g. from your home), you will receive details from the provider with the information you need to connect to the video-conference. In most instances, the IME or their medicolegal representative will send you instructions in an email with a link to the session. They may also contact you prior to the appointment to arrange a test of your internet connectivity to ensure you can connect to the video-conference service successfully. Five minutes before your appointment, follow the instructions to join your video call online. You will see your IME on the computer screen and will be able to talk to them as you would in a face-to-face appointment. The IME will follow the same process as a face-to-face appointment. As with face-to-face consultations, no-one (including you or the IME) may record the consultation unless consent is obtained from the other party. Is a telehealth video-conference right for me? To determine if telehealth video-conferences are right for you, please discuss this option with your TAC case manager. Some of the considerations will include: Client safety Client clinical need Clinical effectiveness Client preference Is an interpreter or support person required? What do I need for the video-conference session? The essential IT requirements are: Internet connectivity Device or computer (with camera, speaker and microphone) Internet browser: Google Chrome To help with a successful video-conference: Ensure your device is fully charged. Use a quiet, well lit room. Don’t sit with your back to a window as the light can flood the camera and you won’t be seen. Maintain your privacy if others are nearby (a room with a door that can be closed if you need to). If you would like a friend or family member to be in attendance, you should contact the TAC beforehand. We will discuss this with the IME and advise you if it is appropriate. If a friend or family member is permitted to be in the room, they must not interfere or obstruct the medical examination and should not attempt to answer questions asked by the IME. Wear suitable clothing and footwear that will assist the IME to assess your physical condition.