Telehealth or GP Visit: What’s Best for Your Situation

What to Consider When Deciding on a Telehealth Script in Comparison to a Personal GP Visit

Introduction. Healthcare is evolving fast, and telehealth is an important factor for patients in Australia. Online consultations provide a convenient way to speak with a doctor without visiting a clinic. If a prescription is considered appropriate, it may be issued following your consultation and sent to your preferred pharmacy. Although telehealth is practical and easy to access, it's not the best choice for every medical issue. So, what do you think about when you should book an online prescription consultation and when to see a GP personally? Let's take a look.

What Is a Telehealth Script?

Telehealth is a valid prescription given by a registered doctor with AHPRA after remote consultation. It's the same as an in-person visit, but it takes place via a secure phone or video. If your doctor determines that your health condition does not need an in-person visit, the doctor can electronically issue a prescription and then deliver it directly to your pharmacy.

Prime Medic provides online consultations where you can discuss your current medications and health concerns with a registered doctor, all from the comfort of home. If a prescription refill is considered appropriate during the consultation, it may be sent directly to your preferred pharmacy.

When a Telehealth Script Is Ideal

Telehealth is especially useful for:

1. Repeat Prescriptions

If you're taking a stable medication plan and need to refill, online consultations are swift, as well as safe and effective.

2. Minor or Non-Urgent Concerns

Telehealth is ideal for mild conditions that don't require a physical exam, like chronic skin conditions, minor respiratory problems, or general medical guidance.

3. Busy Lifestyles

Telehealth is a boon for those with busy lifestyles. If you're in a rush, it eliminates the stress of travel and busy clinics. Online consultations offer a flexible option for busy individuals, including parents and professionals, to speak with a doctor from wherever they are.

4. Rural and Remote Areas

For those living in rural Australia and in areas where access to a doctor's clinic is often limited, telehealth can be the best option.

When You Should Visit a GP in Person

Although telehealth can be practical, there are situations when in-person consultations are required:

• Unusual or new symptoms that need a physical exam (e.g. unusual lumps, pains, or itchy rashes).
• Urgent or severe medical conditions like chest pain, breathing problems, and sudden weakening.
• Tests and diagnostic procedures, which include physical screenings or blood tests.
• Medical histories that are complex and require an evaluation in person are needed.

If you're uncertain if the telehealth option is for you, try an online consult. If required, your doctor will suggest visiting a clinic or a specialist to conduct a further evaluation.

Advantages of Choosing Telehealth for Scripts

Telehealth scripts are gaining popularity due to the fact that they provide

• Speed: There are no waiting rooms, and appointments are available within hours.
• Flexibility: Available late at night and even on weekends.
• Cost Efficiency: Often, more affordable than regular GP visits.
• Online Access to Your Prescription: It could be delivered directly to a pharmacy using eScript.

PrimeMedic offers secure telehealth consultations where you can speak with a doctor about your health needs. If a prescription is considered appropriate, it may be provided following the consultation.

A Blended Approach to Healthcare

Consider the telehealth service as an addition instead of an alternative to your doctor. A lot of patients utilise online consultations to obtain routine prescriptions and follow up by visiting in person for checkups at the end of each year or for more complicated issues. This approach is convenient without compromising quality of care.

How to Decide?

Consider these questions:

1. Does my health condition remain steady and well-known?
2. Do I require a physical exam?
3. Are you in a state of emergency?
4. Could I cut down on time by scheduling an appointment online instead?

If you're looking for the convenience of non-urgent care, telehealth scripts are the best option.

Why Prime Medic Is a Trusted Choice for Online Scripts

• 24/7 access to licenced doctors registered with AHPRA.
• Simple booking system that has transparent pricing.
• Secure, encrypted platform for telehealth.
• For ongoing health needs, a prescription may be provided during your consultation if the doctor determines it is clinically appropriate.

Are you ready to avoid the queue? Book your online prescription consultation with Prime Medic today.

Conclusion

The decision to choose between a telehealth prescription and an in-person appointment with a doctor is dependent on your medical requirements. For non-urgent issues, repeat prescriptions, or for convenience, the telehealth service option is a quick and secure solution. However, for any emergency or signs that require hands-on evaluation, always seek face-to-face treatment for the highest quality of care.

Platforms like Prime Medic offer Australians access to telehealth consultations with registered doctors. If clinically appropriate, a prescription may be provided following the consultation.

Understanding when to choose telehealth over a traditional GP visit is just one part of the puzzle. If you’re still wondering how online prescriptions actually work and why they’re trusted by patients across Australia, check out our detailed guide on What Are Online Prescriptions? A Beginner’s Guide.