The advent of video telehealth has marked a transformative shift in the landscape of healthcare delivery in Australia. As technology continues to advance, the integration of video consultations within general practice has the potential to enhance accessibility, especially for remote and underserved communities. However, despite its promise, the uptake of video telehealth remains relatively low, posing questions about its future role in the healthcare system.
In 2022, a comprehensive analysis of national healthcare claims linked to census data revealed that only 5.1% of the 38 million GP telehealth consultations were conducted via video. This statistic is particularly revealing when considering that 62% of general practitioners who engaged in telehealth utilised video at least once. The data indicates a significant opportunity for growth and adoption, particularly among patients living in remote areas, frequent GP visitors, and those managing multiple health conditions or mental health issues.
The decline in video telehealth usage throughout 2022—from 6.5% of consultations in January to 4.1% by December—raises critical questions about the barriers faced by both healthcare providers and patients. Notably, socioeconomic disadvantage was modestly associated with lower video usage, suggesting that further exploration into financial and technological barriers is needed. While policy changes, such as the removal of reimbursement for long telephone consultations, resulted in slight short-term increases in video usage, the overall trend has remained downward.
To truly revolutionise healthcare, it is imperative that Australia addresses these barriers and fosters an environment where video telehealth can thrive. This involves not only revisiting financial incentives but also enhancing digital literacy and infrastructure across the nation. By doing so, the healthcare sector can ensure that video consultations are not just an alternative, but a viable and preferred option for many Australians.
In conclusion, the journey towards widespread adoption of video telehealth in Australia is ongoing. While current usage rates may be modest, the potential for improvement is vast. As stakeholders in the healthcare system continue to innovate and adapt, video telehealth holds the promise of a more connected, accessible, and efficient future for patients and providers alike.
Source: Uptake of video telehealth in general practice: an Australian whole-of-population analysis