The Department of Health’s Telehealth service is to be extended until the end of the year.
Announcing the move, Minister for Health, Greg Hunt said Telehealth had played an important role in supporting Australians through the pandemic.
“The extension will ensure that Australians can continue to see their GP, renew scripts and seek mental health support from the safety of their own homes,” Mr Hunt said.
“This allows vulnerable Australians to feel protected and supported during these unprecedented times.”
He said it was critical people continued to look after their health and stay engaged with their primary care providers.
From 13 March 2020 to 21 April 2021, more than 56 million COVID-19 Medical Benefits Schedule Telehealth services were delivered to 13.6 million patients, with $2.9 billion in Medicare benefits paid. More than 83,540 providers used Telehealth services.
Mr Hunt said extension of Telehealth included services for GPs, medical practitioners, specialists, consultant physicians, nurse practitioners, participating midwives, allied health providers and dental practitioners.
“The Government continues to work with peak bodies to co-design permanent post-pandemic Telehealth as part of broader primary care reforms to modernise Medicare and provide flexibility of access to primary and allied healthcare services,” the Minister said.
A total of $114 million for the extension of Telehealth was provided in the 2021-22 Budget.
