Accessing quality healthcare in rural Australia has long been a formidable challenge, with individuals often navigating vast distances and geographical obstacles. The Royal Flying Doctor Service, an iconic lifeline, has historically aided those in the outback, yet the healthcare divide remains stark.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, rural and remote areas continue to grapple with higher rates of hospitalisations, deaths, injuries, and limited access to primary healthcare services compared to major cities.
In response to this healthcare chasm, Instant Consult is reshaping the narrative of medical access in rural Australia. It’s an app that leverages video consultations with Australia Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) accredited online doctors, eliminating the need for arduous journeys to medical facilities. The app’s simplicity belies its profound impact, transforming the way individuals access healthcare in remote regions.
How does it work?
Essentially, it’s a telehealth appointment: you can see a Dr from the comfort of your own home via video call. Unlike most medical centres, the app is accessible every day of the year – 365 days – including nights and public holidays. Nearing six thousand ratings and reviews online, it has maintained a high status of 4.8 stars out of 5.
On the 18th of October in 2021, user AngelaS88 said this:
“User-friendly, easy to create an account and fast! Within 5 minutes I had set up my account and had a doctor on the screen.”
How should I prepare for my appointment?
To make the most of your telehealth experience, be prepared with a list of your symptoms, current medications, and medical history. You’re appointed around 10 minutes, give or take — which is automatically timed — and so being prepared is essential, helping the online doctor provide the most accurate care tailored to you.
What about your privacy?
Privacy and security are paramount in the digital healthcare landscape. According to the website, Instant Consult employs robust encryption to safeguard personal and medical information, ensuring the confidentiality of one-on-one video consultations.
What else should I know?
The consultations are also automatically billed. Your nominated credit or debit card will be automatically charged upon conclusion of your online consultation – a standard consult is $45 (less than 10 minutes), and a long consult is $55 (more than 10 minutes). Bulk billing is also offered for infants under 12 months old.
Healthcare should be accessible to all. Having access to a valuable app like this exemplifies the potential of technology in addressing longstanding healthcare disparities.
For more information about Instant Consult, visit the website.