The benefits of telehealth: making healthcare easier for Australians

Ever wished you could see a doctor without the hassle of commuting, finding parking, or sitting in a crowded waiting room? If you’re nodding right now, you’re not alone.

Telehealth – or virtual care – is changing the way Australians look after their health: making it easier, faster, and often more affordable. Especially for folks juggling a busy schedule, living out of town, or who can’t take time off work.

In fact, since the early days of the COVID pandemic, telehealth has exploded in popularity. Between March 2020 and July 2022, doctors delivered a staggering 118 million telehealth services to over 18 million patients. And more than 95,000 healthcare practitioners have embraced this new way of caring for patients.

So whether it’s a doctors certificate online, an online prescription or specialist referrals you’re seeking, the value and benefits of telehealth are clear.

Read on to learn how you can leverage telehealth to improve your healthcare. 

What is a telehealth consult?

A telehealth consult is just like your regular doctor visit, but done remotely – over the phone or through video chat. You can talk to a GP, specialist, or allied health professional without leaving your home, office, or wherever you feel comfortable. 

What’s more, telehealth is provided by healthcare professionals fully registered under the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) to ensure you get quality care regardless of distance.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), nearly 20% of Australians used telehealth to see a GP in 2024-2025, making it a common and trusted way to access healthcare right from home.

Certain health concerns are more suited to a telehealth appointment than others. But telehealth doctors can help you manage a range of everyday health concerns, including:

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) 
• Thrush infections 
• Cold and flu symptoms 
• Sinus Infections and sore throats
• Ear and dental infections
• Migraine 
• Menstruation or menopause symptoms 
• Family planning

In some cases, your telehealth doctor may recommend an in-person visit. Should your symptoms require an in-person assessment, a MediLeave doctor will advise you on the best course of action and treatment plan.

How do telehealth appointments work? 

For a MediLeave telehealth consultation, the process is straightforward. With a user-friendly website, you can connect with a doctor at a time that’s convenient to you. Simply:

1. Choose the telehealth service you require 
2. Select a morning, afternoon or evening time slot for your booking. MediLeave doctors are available 7 days a week, giving you the flexibility to choose a timeframe that suits your schedule.
3. Fill in your details and your contact information and make a payment 
4. A Partner Doctor will call you when they are available.

When it’s time, you connect with your healthcare provider using your phone, tablet, or computer. The consult runs much like an in-person visit – you explain your symptoms, ask questions, and your doctor can even send prescriptions, referrals or medical certificates electronically to your inbox.

 Telehealth benefits for all

Here are 3 reasons why telehealth is such an attractive choice for busy mums, office or shift workers, and students:

1. Convenience

Imagine – no travel to or from clinic waiting rooms! Saving on travel and waiting time is especially critical for those juggling work, study, or caregiving responsibilities.

As MediLeave patient Shehraj, told us, “Had a great experience with MediLeave – the process was smooth, quick, and hassle-free. Really appreciate their support and professionalism. Highly recommend!”

2. Better access for regional and remote Australia

In rural and remote areas, access to healthcare professionals is often limited. Telehealth can provide access to healthcare without the need to travel long distances. 

3. Enhanced safety

The last thing you want is to pick up an infection in the clinic waiting room, or risk sharing germs with others. This is especially important for vulnerable populations like children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. 

Melinda B, another MediLeave patient agrees, saying: “Very helpful as it reduces the risk of spreading illness to others by allowing you to stay home, certificate is sent quickly and the price is reasonable.”

 What to expect during your telehealth appointment

You’ll need a device like a smartphone, computer, or tablet, plus a reliable internet connection. 

These virtual visits allow you to interact naturally with your doctor: ask questions, discuss symptoms, and get immediate care plans or referrals. If you require a physical exam or tests, your healthcare provider will advise an in-person follow-up.

Online telehealth providers like MediLeave prioritise privacy and are bound by strict Australian healthcare regulations, ensuring your information is protected. 

 Conclusion: Will telehealth benefit you?

Telehealth is transforming the way Australians access healthcare, making life simpler for everyone – whether you’re in the city, the bush, or somewhere in between. 

In fact, the ABS reports that a remarkable 90.3% of those who had a telehealth consultation say they would use it again. That’s a huge vote of confidence, showing just how much Australians value the convenience and accessibility it offers.

Ready to give telehealth a try? Next time you need support – a quick certificate, health check, or mental health chat – you can pop on to MediLeave online, choose a Telehealth appointment, and get help on your terms. For heaps of Aussies, telehealth is the easiest way to stay well, get answers fast, and fit healthcare into real life. Why not see for yourself?

Sources

• Australian Bureau of Statistics (2024-25), Patient Experiences, ABS Website, accessed 19 November 2025.
• Telehealth. (2025). Retrieved November 20, 2025, from https://www.digitalhealth.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/telehealth 
• What is telehealth | Better Health Channel. (2022). Retrieved November 20, 2025, from https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/what-telehealth
• Thomas E, te al. Patient Use, Experience, and Satisfaction With Telehealth in an Australian Population (Reimagining Health Care): Web-Based Survey Study. J Med Internet Res. 2023 Aug 17;25:e45016. doi: 10.2196/45016.