The honest answer: it depends on what you need
There is no universally correct answer. Both telehealth and in-clinic visits are legitimate ways to access healthcare, and each has clear strengths. The right choice depends on what you are dealing with today, not a blanket preference for one format over the other.
Where telehealth works well
Telehealth is well suited to consultations where the clinical decision-making relies primarily on conversation, history-taking, and reviewing results rather than physical examination. This includes:
- Follow-up appointments. Reviewing test results, adjusting management plans, and checking progress are often more convenient (and equally effective) via video.
- Mental health consultations. Many patients find they are more open and comfortable in their own environment. Research suggests that telehealth can be effective for a range of health concerns, with effectiveness varying by condition and individual circumstances.
- Chronic condition management. Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and weight management often involve regular check-ins that do not require in-person attendance each time.
- Prescription reviews. Renewing or adjusting medications after an initial assessment can be handled efficiently via telehealth.
- Medical certificates. A brief video or phone consultation is sufficient for assessing fitness for work or study.
- Getting advice when access is limited. If you live in a rural or regional area, have mobility challenges, or simply cannot take half a day off work to sit in a waiting room, telehealth removes a significant barrier to care.
When in-person is the better choice
There are situations where a doctor genuinely needs to examine you physically, and telehealth is not the right fit:
- Severe abdominal pain, chest pain, or breathing difficulties
- Suspected fractures or injuries that need imaging
- Skin concerns that require close examination or biopsy
- Any condition that requires a physical procedure
- Acute mental health crises where immediate in-person support is needed
If you are unsure, err on the side of caution. A telehealth practitioner can always advise you to seek in-person care if your situation requires it.
The approach that works for most people
Many Australians are finding that a combination of both formats gives them the flexibility and quality of care they need. A common pattern looks like:
- An initial video consultation to discuss your concerns and start building a plan
- Follow-up consultations online at regular intervals
- In-person visits when a physical examination is clinically necessary
This hybrid approach means you are not locked into one mode of care. You can adapt based on what each appointment actually requires.
What about cost?
Telehealth consultations are often more affordable than in-person visits, largely because providers do not carry the overhead costs of a physical clinic. Many telehealth services offer transparent, flat-rate pricing so you know exactly what you will pay before you book.
Where Medicare applies, some telehealth consultations may be bulk-billed, though this varies by provider and service type.
How to decide right now
Ask yourself two questions:
- Does my concern require a physical examination? If yes, book an in-person appointment. If you are not sure, a telehealth consultation can help you work that out.
- What is the fastest path to actually seeing a doctor? The most effective care is the care that actually happens. If a telehealth appointment means seeing a doctor today instead of waiting weeks for an in-person slot, that matters.
The format of the consultation matters far less than having the conversation with a qualified practitioner in the first place.
This article is for general information only. Individual results vary. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised advice.
References
- Healthdirect Australia. Telehealth. Available at: healthdirect.gov.au/telehealth
- RACGP. (2023). Guide to providing telephone and video consultations in general practice. Available at: racgp.org.au
