Telehealth, by phone or video.
Telehealth consultations by phone or video for existing SMSG patients. Useful for follow-up appointments, mental health, results discussions, and specific consultations where a physical examination isn't required. Available across all three centres.
Same care, different room.
Telehealth means a consultation done remotely, either by video call or phone. It became a major part of general practice during COVID-19 and has continued as a standard mode of care where it suits. For SMSG patients, telehealth appointments are booked the same way as in-person appointments. Your medical practitioner calls or video-calls you at a time that is mutually convenient. The consultation is Medicare-rebatable under standard rules.
Telehealth doesn't replace in-person care where a physical examination is needed. Your practitioner will let you know if an in-person appointment is more appropriate for what you are seeing us about. Under current Medicare rules, telehealth is rebatable when there's an established doctor-patient relationship, generally meaning you've had a face-to-face consultation with the same practice within the previous 12 months. Exceptions may apply in specific circumstances and will generally be discussed with you in advance by the medical practitioner or reception team.
Follow-ups, results, and mental health.
Book, take the call, follow up.
Book online through Automed and select a telehealth appointment type, or call reception. Confirm your contact number and whether you want a phone or video appointment. The medical practitioner will aim to call you as close to your scheduled appointment time as possible. However, delays may occur due to clinical requirements, and the practitioner may need to call between patients or later in the day. If you're doing a video consultation, you'll receive a link to join a secure video platform shortly before the appointment.
During the consultation, your medical practitioner conducts things as they would in person. Any prescriptions can be sent electronically to your pharmacy, any referrals can be prepared and sent, any pathology or imaging requests can be issued, and a follow-up plan is agreed. If during the telehealth consultation your medical practitioner identifies something that needs in-person review, they'll book that or advise you to attend.
Preparation. Find a quiet, private space. Charge your phone or device. Make sure you have decent phone reception or internet connection. Have your notes ready (what you want to raise, your medications, any relevant test results). If using video, position your camera so your face is well lit and clearly visible.
With your usual practitioner, wherever they consult.
Telehealth is available with all medical practitioners and allied health providers for eligible patients at any of the SMSG centres.
Confirmed at booking.
Telehealth appointments follow the same billing arrangements as in-person appointments. Medicare rebates apply where the appointment meets Medicare's telehealth eligibility rules.
Bulk-billing arrangements for telehealth vary by practitioner. Reception confirms specific fee arrangements at booking.
Common questions.
Who offers telehealth at SMSG?
All medical practitioners and allied health providers offer telehealth services for eligible patients who meet the relevant telehealth requirements. Please note that some consultations and services cannot be provided via telehealth. Reception will advise you at the time of booking if your appointment is not suitable for telehealth.
Can new patients book telehealth?
Under Medicare rules, an established relationship is generally required for the Medicare rebate. New patients typically need an in-person consultation first, unless they qualify for one of the exceptions.
Is telehealth secure and private?
Yes. The platforms used are compliant with Australian privacy standards for healthcare. Your consultation notes are kept in your file as they would be for an in-person consultation.
Can telehealth prescriptions be sent to my pharmacy?
Yes. Electronic prescriptions are sent to any Australian pharmacy of your choice.
