Telehealth or In-Person?

Booking a doctor’s appointment looks a little different these days. At Goldfields Family Medical Centre, we offer both telehealth and face-to-face consultations. Knowing which one suits your situation can save you time and get you and your family the right care, faster.

FACTS ON THIS PAGE

What Is a Telehealth Appointment?

A telehealth consultation is a medical appointment conducted by phone or video call, rather than in person at the clinic. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth has become a permanent and widely used part of Australia’s healthcare system. The Australian Government Department of Health now funds telehealth consultations through Medicare, meaning many are bulk-billed or Medicare-rebatable for eligible patients.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 22.5% of Australians used telehealth services in 2024–25, and this figure continues to grow.

When Is Telehealth the Right Choice?

Telehealth works well when a physical examination is not required. Common reasons to book a telehealth appointment include:

  • Repeat prescriptions and medication reviews
  • Medical certificates for work or school
  • Referrals to specialists or pathology requests
  • Mental health care advice
  • Follow-up consultations to discuss test results
  • Advice on minor illnesses such as colds, UTIs, or mild rashes
  • Chronic disease management check-ins, such as for asthma or diabetes

Telehealth is also a practical option if you’re unwell and prefer to avoid a waiting room, have difficulty travelling to the clinic, or simply need a quick consultation that doesn’t require a hands-on assessment.

When Should You See Your GP in Person?

Some conditions though cannot be properly assessed without a physical examination. You should book an in-person appointment at Goldfields Family Medical Centre if you have:

Symptoms That Need Physical Assessment

Abdominal pain, chest symptoms, joint problems, lumps, ear pain, or any condition where your GP needs to palpate, listen, or examine you up close all require an in-person visit.

Procedures and Tests

Pathology (blood tests, swabs), immunisations, skin and mole checks, iron infusions, blood pressure monitoring, and ear microsuction all require you to attend the clinic in person. Your GP can issue pathology requests via telehealth, but sample collection still happens at a collection centre.

Urgent or Emergency Symptoms

Severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, serious injuries, or any rapidly worsening condition require immediate in-person care. In a medical emergency, call 000 or go straight to your nearest Emergency Department. Do not rely on telehealth for urgent presentations.

Medicare and Telehealth

If you have a telehealth or phone consultation at Goldfields Family Medical Centre with your GP, you will be charged a private fee as per your doctor’s normal billing arrangements. As long as you have been into the clinic for a face-to-face appointment in the last 12 months, you will be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

FAQs

Can I get a prescription via telehealth?
Yes. GPs can issue prescriptions electronically during a telehealth consultation for most medications. Some high-risk medications may still require an in-person visit.

Is telehealth as good as seeing my GP in person?
For consultations that don’t need a physical exam, telehealth is clinically effective and patient satisfaction is consistently high.

How do I know which type of appointment to book?
If you’re unsure, contact our reception team and we’ll help you choose the right option. As a general guide: if you need something examined, seen up close, or tested, you should come in. For everything else, telehealth may be a great fit.

Do I need special equipment for a telehealth appointment?
No. A phone or a device with internet access and a camera is all you need. Our team will send you a link or call you at your appointment time.

Contact Us

Whether you or your family need a telehealth consultation or a face-to-face appointment, we’re here to help. We offer both options to make accessing quality care as easy as possible. Get in touch today to find out more!

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