The Federal Government has mandated the removal of patient MBS rebates for telephone-only telehealth for problems such as chronic disease, mental health, and ANY GP CONSULTATION beyond 20 minutes.

The patient value proposition from telehealth is enormous where the service is appropriate. Telehealth saves time and improves accessibility for patients. It does so particularly for young families, elderly patients (where mobility can be a barrier to care) as well as people with chronic or complex health needs.

This means that patients who wish to access telehealth MUST HAVE video conferencing facilities to access this care. The past 9 months of telehealth have shows us that LESS THAN 5% of patients choose video. It is complex to use and making it mandatory simply reduces access to care (which must be the ONLY goal of this policy change)

This policy unfairly targets patients that are already disadvantaged by the Social Determinants of Health. This policy is about blocking accessible care to YOUR GP and you must stop it.

If you believe all Australians have the right to equitable and accessible General Practice then sign this petition that will be forwarded to Federal Minister Greg Hunt