Telehealth has become an important part of modern healthcare, giving patients the ability to consult with their GP by phone or video. While Telehealth offers convenience and accessibility, there are times when visiting the clinic in person is more appropriate. Understanding the difference can help you get the right care at the right time.
What is a Telehealth GP Appointment?
A Telehealth GP appointment allows you to connect with your doctor by phone or video instead of attending the clinic. Telehealth doctors provide safe, secure, and confidential consultations using encrypted platforms.
At Brisbane City Doctors, Telehealth can be used for:
- Follow-up consultations
- Repeat prescriptions and referrals (when clinically appropriate)
- Mental health support and care plans
- General advice for common health concerns
- Chronic condition reviews
Benefits of Choosing Telehealth
Telehealth is designed to make healthcare more accessible. Some of the main advantages include:
- Convenience: You can speak to your GP without leaving home or the office, saving time and avoiding travel.
- Safety: Telehealth reduces the risk of exposure to illness, particularly during flu season or if you are feeling unwell.
- Continuity of Care: With GP Telehealth appointments, you can continue to see your regular doctor for ongoing management of your health.
- Accessibility: Telehealth makes it easier for people with mobility issues, busy schedules, or those living further from the clinic to access care.
When Telehealth is Suitable
There are many situations where Telehealth is a safe and effective choice. These include:
- Prescription renewals and referrals – If you need medication continued or a referral to a specialist, your GP can often provide this remotely. See our repeat prescriptions and referrals page for details.
- Mental health support – Telehealth is widely used for counselling and mental health care plans. Learn more about our mental health services.
- Chronic disease reviews – For conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or hypertension, a Telehealth check-in may be appropriate when a physical exam isn’t required.
- General advice – Telehealth is ideal for discussing test results, follow-ups, or getting professional advice on minor symptoms.
When an In-Clinic Appointment is Best
While Telehealth has many uses, there are times when visiting the clinic in person is essential:
- Physical examinations – Issues that require hands-on assessment, such as abdominal pain, chest symptoms, or injuries.
- Procedures and investigations – Services such as skin checks, immunisations, and blood tests require a face-to-face visit.
- Severe or urgent symptoms – Shortness of breath, severe pain, or sudden illness should be assessed in person. In an emergency, call 000 or attend your nearest hospital.
- Complex conditions – If your doctor needs to listen to your heart, check blood pressure, or perform a physical exam, an in-clinic consultation is required.
Blending Telehealth and In-Person Care
In many cases, the best approach is a mix of Telehealth and in-person visits. For example:
- A Telehealth consultation to review test results, followed by an in-clinic appointment for further checks.
- A mental health Telehealth session, with follow-up in person if medication or examination is needed.
- A prescription provided via Telehealth, with a later clinic visit for a full health check.
This blended model ensures patients can access care conveniently while still receiving the physical examinations and procedures that only in-person care provides.
How to Book a Telehealth or In-Clinic Appointment
Booking is simple at Brisbane City Doctors:
- For Telehealth, visit our Telehealth page and select a phone or video consultation.
- For in-person care, you can book through our general practice services or call our reception team.
- If you are unsure which option is best, our staff can help guide you.
Telehealth GP consultations are a safe, convenient way to access healthcare for many situations, but they are not a replacement for every type of appointment. Knowing when to book a Telehealth doctor and when to attend the clinic helps you get the right care at the right time.
Book an appointment today with Brisbane City Doctors for Telehealth or in-clinic GP consultations.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for general educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or care. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or medical condition.