The benefits of telehealth: making healthcare easier for Australians
MediLeave Editorial Team
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 you need a medical certificate, an instant script, 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, your MediLeave doctor will advise you on the best course of action and treatment plan.
How do telehealth appointments work?
To speak to a doctor online at MediLeave, the process is straightforward. With our user-friendly website, you can connect with a doctor at a time that’s convenient to you. Simply:
- Choose the telehealth service you require.
- 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 works best for you.
- Fill in your details and your contact information.
- Make a payment using our secure payment gateway.
- One of our doctors 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.
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.
MediLeave patient Melinda B, 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.”
Practical uses of telehealth
Still not sure how to make the most of online healthcare? Let’s break down the services most popular with MediLeave patients:
- Quick and affordable online medical certificates for work, study or carer’s leave
- Easy online prescriptions for a new or repeat medicine
- Online doctors on demand for medical advice available 7 days a week
- Requests for blood or pathology testing, imaging or radiology, eScript renewals, or referral to a specialist – sent to you electronically
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 prioritize 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 massive vote of confidence, showing just how much Australians value the convenience and accessibility telehealth offers.
Ready to give telehealth a try? Next time you need support – a quick certificate, health check, or referral – 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.
