Telehealth

Where a health provider cannot see a patient in person, virtual or telehealth consultations done by via phone or video can be useful, including during times of emergency and natural disasters. 

Beyond the benefits realised during the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth can increase access to primary care for vulnerable populations, feelings of privacy, convenience by reducing travel costs and provide an opportunity for greater collaboration between multidisciplinary teams.

Although there are many different video conference systems are available, Murray PHN has partnered with healthdirect to provide general practices in the region with free licensing to access the healthdirect video call service platform. While general practices are not obligated to use healthdirect for their video calls, practices must ensure that their chosen video consultation system meets clinical requirements and satisfies privacy laws.

Healthdirect Video Call is also the preferred platform for virtual/telehealth care consulting for Victorian publicly funded health services (hospitals, community health services, maternal health services) because it provides a secure, reliable service that uses common smart devices (mobile phone, tablet, or computer) and is designed to complement clinical workflows that are familiar to providers and patients.

For a list of MBS items for telehealth, click here to visit our Medicare Benefits Schedule page.

For support

If you would like the Murray PHN’s digital health team to set up your practice up with a free license, or you have an existing license and would like refresher training on how to use Healthdirect to its full advantage e: digitalhealth@murrayphn.org.au

Last Update: September 3rd, 2024

Murray PHN acknowledges its catchment crosses over many unceded First Nations Countries, following the Dhelkunya Yaluk (Healing River).

We pay our respects and give thanks to the Ancestors, Elders and Young people for their nurturing, protection and caregiving of these sacred lands and waterways, acknowledging their continuing cultural, spiritual and educational practices.

We are grateful for the sharing of Country and the renewal that Country gives us. We acknowledge and express our sorrow that this sharing has come at a personal, spiritual and cultural cost to the wellbeing of First Nations peoples. We commit to addressing the injustices of colonisation across our catchment, and to listening to the wisdom of First Nations communities who hold the knowledge to enable healing. We extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.