Telehealth services extended

TELEHEALTH services created to provide people medical access during the pandemic have been extended until December 31.

More than $114 million is being spent on extending services for general practitioners, medical practitioners, specialists, consultant physicians, nurse practitioners, participating midwives, allied health providers and dental practitioners.

Member for New England Barnaby Joyce said the extension complements the Government’s steadfast commitment to Medicare in the New England.

“The most recent data showed our bulk billing rate at 78.4 percent, meaning on average nearly eight out of ten visits to the GP in the New England were provided with no out-of-pocket cost,” Mr Joyce said.

“The extension will ensure that people in the New England can continue to see their GP, renew scripts and seek mental health support from the safety of their own home. This allows vulnerable Australians to feel protected and supported during these unprecedented times,” he said.

From March 13 2020 to April 21 2021, more than 54 million Covid-19 telehealth services were delivered to 13.6 million patients, with $2.9 billion in Medicare benefits paid.

The Government is currently working on designing a permanent post-pandemic Telehealth system.