Residents of the Torres Strait/Cape York are urged to ask their doctors about using telephone and video calls for their healthcare appointments.
The reminder comes as the inaugural Virtual Care Awareness Week is launched statewide from 27 October. Virtual Care includes a number of services that include telephone consultations and video appointments which are also known as Telehealth Services.
“Being on Country keeps patients strong, connected with family and culture; Telehealth allows specialist care to be provided to patients, without disrupting that connection to Country,” Consultant Nephrologist Dr Janelle Prunster said.
“Sadly, many of my patients may need to spend long periods of time away from Country.
“It’s so important to get patients home when they can access the care that they need at home. When patients get back to Country, their family and community, they heal. It’s a wonderful thing to witness.”
Virtual Care now includes the option for specialists to conduct remote monitoring of a patient’s condition.
“Remote monitoring means your specialist can team up with a clinician at a clinic or hospital close near you and work together to provide you the care you need,” Executive Director of Medical Services, Dr Marlow Coates said.
“Your doctor can also connect with other specialist if they need to, giving you access to the best specialists for your condition, no matter where you live.”
Virtual Care consultations include multiple ways for doctors to support patients and provide care close to home.
“When you have a virtual care appointment, we use specially designed software, so it’s safe, secure and your data is private, just like when you see a healthcare provider in person,” Dr Coates said.
Virtual care consultations such as a Telehealth video call can offer patients the same quality of care as if a doctor were in the same room.
“There is no travelling across the state for a follow-up appointment or an initial chat; you can do it all over the phone or computer while at home or at a clinic close to you,” Dr Coates said.
“Ask your doctor if Virtual Care is right for you, your condition and your location.”
For more information about telehealth video consults, visit telehealth.