Flying Doctor Specialist Telehealth service
Access to specialist health services is a problem faced by many rural Victorians. Some barriers for access include the cost of appointment and travel, time off work and long wait lists.
Hindered access to specialist services often leads to patients delaying seeking specialist care, which can result in avoidable hospitalisation and complications.
To combat this lack of access to specialist services, RFDS Victoria launched its Specialist Telehealth service in 2013.
Using a purpose built platform, RFDS Victoria works with small rural health services to support patients in booking and attending their online appointments.
The service allows for patients to have a 100% bulk billed appointment with their specialist, without needing to travel to Melbourne and pay for transport or accommodation.