The Covid-19 pandemic has changed many things about the way grey nomads live and travel, including the way we access healthcare.
Part of the ‘new normal’ has been an increasing reliance on telehealth as more healthcare providers have embraced technology to enable them to better cater to the needs of patients in an uncertain world.
When the Covid crisis first unfolded, the Federal Government rushed through changes to the Medicare Benefits Scheme (MBS) which allowed Australians to access bulkbilled telehealth consultations with their doctors and other health professionals.
It meant that, when a physical examination wasn’t required, grey nomads and others could talk to their doctor on the phone or via a video platform, such as FaceTime, instead of having to travel to a surgery. For many grey nomads this was a huge bonus as it enabled them to get proper medical advice even when out in remote locations.
Telehealth can be used for everything from prescriptions, referrals and medical certificates, to treatment of minor ailments. Now, as part of the 2021-22 Budget, the Federal Government has announced it is to invest more than $114 million to extend telehealth until the end of the year.
Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said the extension would ensure that Australians can continue to see their GP, renew scripts and seek mental health support wherever they are.
“This allows vulnerable Australians to feel protected and supported during these unprecedented times,” he said. “It is critical that Australians continue to look after their health and stay engaged with primary care providers.”
The CEO of the Consumers Health Forum, Leanne Wells, also welcomed the extension of Medicare coverage for telehealth consultations. “It makes good use of the technology we already have,” she said. “It’s convenient for consumers and gives both health care providers and their patients the flexibility and choice to consider how telehealth best fits their needs.”
Dr John Hall, the President of the Rural Doctors Association of Australia, said telehealth had proved to be a convenient and effective tool, with many grey nomads benefitting from the ability to access on-the-road telehealth appointments with their regular GP.
“They may also be able to send you any new prescriptions electronically, or as an image via your phone or email, that you can then present to the local pharmacy,” he said. “But keep in mind that some consults need to be face-to-face … and not all pharmacies are set up to process e-scripts.”
