It is increasingly recognised that telehealth services reduce waiting times and increase patient satisfaction. In response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic, Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) rebates for telehealth services (telephone and video consultations) were introduced in March 2020. We investigated the characteristics of patients who used
Family Planning NSW telehealth services during 2020, and explored patients’ and clinicians’ experiences with these services.
Our findings indicate that telehealth can improve access to sexual and reproductive health services. Its advantages include convenience, accessibility, and patient comfort, particularly for younger people. Using visual technology for telehealth consultations would need to take privacy concerns into consideration. Integrating telehealth into health care was acceptable to both clinicians and patients. Removing restrictions on MBS rebates for telehealth consultations would enhance access to sexual and reproductive health services in Australia.
Citation: Cheng Y, Boerma C, Peck L, Botfield JR, Estoesta J, McGeechan K. Telehealth sexual and reproductive health care during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Medical Journal of Australia. 2021;215(8):371-372. https://doi.org/10.5694/mja2.51219