Telehealth for Aged Care in Australia: How It Works and What Is Available

Key Points

Medicare covers telehealth GP and specialist consultations permanently for all Australians, including aged care recipients
Home Care Package (HCP) and Support at Home funding can be used for allied health telehealth services like dietetics, psychology, and speech therapy
Telehealth works via video call, phone call, or secure messaging, depending on the service and clinical requirements
Older Australians in regional and remote areas benefit the most from telehealth, but it is available nationwide
Setting up telehealth requires minimal technology, and many services work with a basic phone call

What Is Telehealth in Aged Care?

Telehealth refers to health services delivered remotely using telecommunications technology. Instead of travelling to a clinic or waiting for a home visit, an older person can speak with their doctor, specialist, or allied health professional through a video call, phone call, or secure online platform.

In the context of aged care, telehealth covers a wide range of services. A GP can review medications over a video call. A psychologist can conduct a session by phone. A dietitian can assess nutritional needs and adjust meal plans through a video consultation. A geriatrician can review test results and update a care plan without requiring the patient to travel to a hospital outpatient clinic.

Telehealth became widely available across Australia during 2020 when temporary Medicare items were introduced to support remote consultations. Since then, the Australian Government has made telehealth a permanent part of the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS). This means telehealth is not a temporary measure. It is a standard option for accessing healthcare, and it is particularly useful for older Australians who face barriers to attending in-person appointments.

Why Telehealth Matters for Older Australians

Older Australians face specific challenges when accessing healthcare. Understanding these challenges makes it clear why telehealth has become such a valuable option.

Mobility and Transport Barriers

Many older Australians have reduced mobility due to arthritis, falls risk, chronic pain, or other conditions. Travelling to a GP clinic or hospital can be physically demanding and sometimes distressing. For those who no longer drive, arranging transport through family, community transport, or taxis adds another layer of difficulty and cost.

Telehealth removes the need for travel entirely. A follow-up appointment that would require a 45-minute drive, parking, and waiting room time can be completed in 15 minutes from the comfort of home.

Access in Regional and Remote Areas

Around one-third of Australians aged 65 and over live outside major cities. In regional and remote areas, specialist access is limited. Waiting times can stretch to months, and travel distances to specialist clinics can be significant.

Telehealth connects older Australians in these areas directly with specialists in capital cities. A person living in regional Western Australia can consult with a geriatrician in Perth without leaving their home. Someone in rural Queensland can access a specialist falls prevention clinic based in Brisbane.

Infection Risk Reduction

Older Australians, particularly those with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems, face higher risks from infections. Waiting rooms in clinics and hospitals can expose vulnerable patients to respiratory illnesses and other infections. Telehealth eliminates this exposure for consultations that do not require physical examination.

Continuity of Care

When an older person is unwell, recovering from a hospital stay, or experiencing a flare-up of a chronic condition, attending an in-person appointment may not be practical. Telehealth allows continuity of care during these periods. Rather than missing or postponing an appointment, the patient can still connect with their healthcare provider and receive timely clinical advice.

What Aged Care Services Can Be Delivered via Telehealth?

A wide range of health services relevant to aged care can be delivered through telehealth. Not every consultation is suitable for remote delivery, but many routine and follow-up services work well.

GP Consultations

General practice is the most common telehealth service used by older Australians. GPs can conduct the following via telehealth:

Medication reviews and prescription renewals: Reviewing current medications, adjusting dosages, and issuing new prescriptions
Chronic disease management: Monitoring conditions like diabetes, heart failure, COPD, and hypertension through regular check-ins
Mental health check-ins: Brief assessments for depression, anxiety, or cognitive changes
Post-hospital follow-up: Reviewing discharge instructions, medication changes, and recovery progress
Referrals: Writing referrals to specialists, allied health professionals, or diagnostic services
Care plan reviews: Reviewing and updating GP Management Plans (GPMPs) and Team Care Arrangements (TCAs)

GP telehealth consultations are covered by Medicare with the same rebate structure as in-person visits in most cases.

Specialist Consultations

Many specialist services are available via telehealth, including:

Geriatrics: Comprehensive geriatric assessments (initial assessments may require in-person), medication reviews, and management of complex conditions
Psychiatry: Assessment and management of mental health conditions, including dementia-related behavioural changes
Endocrinology: Diabetes management and thyroid condition monitoring
Cardiology: Heart failure management, medication adjustments, and review of home-monitored data
Neurology: Follow-up for Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and other neurological conditions
Pain medicine: Chronic pain management and medication reviews

Specialist telehealth consultations are covered by Medicare when initiated through a GP referral.

Allied Health Services

Allied health telehealth is a growing area with strong relevance to aged care. Services include:

Psychology: Counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy, and support for grief, anxiety, and adjustment to care
Dietetics: Nutritional assessments, meal planning, weight management, and management of conditions like diabetes and malnutrition
Speech pathology: Communication therapy, cognitive-linguistic therapy, and some swallowing assessments
Occupational therapy: Home safety assessments (using video to view the home environment), equipment recommendations, and activity planning
Physiotherapy: Exercise prescription, falls prevention education, and movement assessments
Social work: Counselling, advance care planning discussions, and carer support

Allied health telehealth may be covered through Medicare (under a Team Care Arrangement or mental health care plan) or through Home Care Package funding. If you are receiving a Home Care Package, speak to your provider about whether telehealth allied health is included in your care plan.

For a full overview of what allied health professionals do in aged care, see our guide to allied health services in aged care.

How Telehealth Is Funded in Aged Care

Understanding who pays for telehealth is important for older Australians and their families. There are several funding pathways.

Medicare

Medicare is the primary funder of telehealth for older Australians. Key points include:

GP telehealth consultations are covered under permanent MBS items. Rebates apply for both video and phone consultations
Specialist telehealth consultations are covered when a valid GP referral is in place
Allied health telehealth is covered for up to five sessions per calendar year under a Team Care Arrangement (TCA) or mental health treatment plan
Bulk billing is available from many GPs for telehealth, meaning no out-of-pocket cost for the patient
Phone-only consultations are covered for patients aged 65 and over, patients with a chronic disease, or patients in rural and remote areas

Patients who are not bulk billed will pay the standard gap fee, which is the difference between the provider’s fee and the Medicare rebate.

Home Care Packages (HCP)

For older Australians receiving a Home Care Package, telehealth allied health services can be funded from the package budget. This includes:

Dietetics consultations
Psychology sessions
Speech pathology
Occupational therapy assessments
Physiotherapy consultations
Social work and counselling

The cost is deducted from your HCP budget in the same way as an in-person service. Telehealth sessions through HCP may be less expensive than in-person sessions because they do not include travel time charges from the provider.

Speak to your HCP provider about including telehealth services in your care plan. If telehealth is a priority for you, this is something to discuss when choosing or switching providers.

Support at Home Program

From 1 November 2025, the Support at Home program replaces Home Care Packages. Telehealth allied health services will continue to be available under the new program. The classification levels determine the amount of funding available, and telehealth services can be included in your support plan.

For details on how the classification system works, visit our aged care information hub.

Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA)

Veterans with a DVA Gold or White Card can access telehealth services through DVA-funded arrangements. GP and specialist telehealth is covered, and allied health telehealth is available for conditions covered by the veteran’s card.

Private Health Insurance

Some private health insurance policies cover telehealth consultations under their extras cover. Check with your insurer about whether telehealth sessions with allied health professionals are covered under your policy.

How to Set Up Telehealth: A Step-by-Step Guide

Setting up telehealth does not require advanced technical skills. Many older Australians, family members, and carers have found the process straightforward once they know what to expect.

Step 1: Choose Your Device

Telehealth works on several types of devices:

Smartphone: An iPhone or Android phone with a front-facing camera. This is the most common device used for telehealth
Tablet: An iPad or Android tablet provides a larger screen, which can be easier to see
Computer or laptop: A desktop computer or laptop with a webcam and microphone
Landline phone: For phone-only consultations, a standard phone is all that is needed

If you do not have a smartphone, tablet, or computer, phone-only consultations are available for most GP services for patients aged 65 and over.

Step 2: Check Your Internet Connection

Video telehealth requires a stable internet connection. Most home broadband connections and mobile data plans are sufficient. A minimum speed of around 1.5 Mbps is recommended for a smooth video call.

If your internet is unreliable, consider:

Moving closer to your Wi-Fi router during the call
Using a mobile phone with 4G or 5G data as a backup
Asking your provider if a phone-only consultation is an option

Step 3: Book Your Appointment

Contact your GP, specialist, or allied health provider and ask for a telehealth appointment. Most practices now offer telehealth as a standard booking option. When booking, you will be told:

Whether the consultation will be by video or phone
Which platform the provider uses (such as Coviu, Healthdirect Video Call, or Zoom for Healthcare)
Whether you need to download an app beforehand
Any documents or test results to have ready

Step 4: Prepare for Your Appointment

Before the appointment:

Have your Medicare card and any referral details ready
Write down your questions or concerns so you do not forget anything during the consultation
Gather current medications so the provider can see what you are taking
Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can talk privately
Test your device: Make sure the camera and microphone work. Ask a family member or carer to help if needed
Charge your device or plug it in so it does not run out of battery during the call

Step 5: Join the Consultation

At the appointment time:

Click the link sent by the provider (usually via email or SMS) or call the phone number provided
You may enter a virtual waiting room. The provider will connect with you shortly
During the consultation, speak clearly and hold the camera at a comfortable angle if using video
Take notes or ask the provider to send a summary after the appointment

Step 6: After the Appointment

After the consultation:

Collect any prescriptions electronically (e-prescriptions can be sent directly to your phone or pharmacy)
Follow up on any referrals or test orders
Schedule your next appointment, whether in-person or telehealth
Contact the clinic if you have questions about what was discussed

Technology Requirements and Accessibility

Minimum Technology Needs

Feature	Video Telehealth	Phone Telehealth
Device	Smartphone, tablet, or computer	Any phone
Internet	Broadband or mobile data	Not required
Camera	Front-facing camera	Not required
Microphone	Built-in or external	Built-in
Software	Web browser or provider app	None

Accessibility Features

Telehealth platforms used in Australian healthcare include accessibility features for older users:

Large text and high-contrast displays for those with vision impairment
Closed captions on some platforms for hearing-impaired patients
Screen reader compatibility for vision-impaired users
Simple one-click join links that do not require account creation or login
Phone fallback options when video is not accessible

Getting Help with Technology

If you or your family member needs help setting up telehealth:

Ask a family member or carer to help with the first appointment
Contact your local library for free digital literacy sessions
Check with your aged care provider as some offer technology support as part of their services
Call the Be Connected helpline (1300 795 897) for free one-on-one tech support for people over 50
Contact your Home Care Package provider about whether digital inclusion support is available through your package

Benefits of Telehealth in Aged Care

For Older Australians

Reduced travel burden: No need to arrange transport, navigate parking, or manage mobility challenges
Faster access to specialists: Shorter wait times compared to in-person specialist appointments in some cases
Greater comfort: Consultations from the familiar environment of home
Lower cost: No travel expenses, and potentially lower gap fees for some services
Better medication management: Easier to show the provider all current medications from home
Carer involvement: Family members or carers in different locations can join the call to support the patient

For Carers and Family Members

Remote participation: A family member interstate or overseas can join a telehealth consultation with the patient’s consent
Reduced time off work: No need to take time off to drive the person to appointments
Better communication: Hearing the consultation directly rather than relying on the patient to relay information
Peace of mind: Being involved in care decisions even when unable to attend in person

For Healthcare Providers

More frequent check-ins: Providers can schedule shorter, more frequent telehealth reviews rather than less frequent in-person visits
Better no-show rates: Telehealth appointments have lower no-show rates compared to in-person appointments
Home environment insight: Video consultations allow providers to observe the patient’s home environment, which can reveal safety concerns or functional issues
Efficient use of time: Less time lost to patient travel delays and cancellations

Limitations of Telehealth

Telehealth is not suitable for every type of consultation. It is important to understand when in-person care is still necessary.

When In-Person Visits Are Required

Physical examinations: Listening to heart and lung sounds, palpating the abdomen, checking reflexes, or assessing wounds
Diagnostic procedures: Blood tests, imaging, hearing tests, and other diagnostic procedures
Vaccinations and injections: Any treatment requiring hands-on administration
Acute emergencies: Chest pain, stroke symptoms, severe falls, or other urgent situations require emergency services, not telehealth
Complex mobility assessments: Detailed gait analysis, balance testing, and physical capacity assessments
New patient assessments: Some providers prefer an initial in-person consultation before transitioning to telehealth for follow-ups

Technology Barriers

Some older Australians face genuine barriers to using telehealth:

No internet access: Approximately 20% of Australians aged 65 and over do not use the internet at home
Low digital literacy: Unfamiliarity with video calling, apps, or digital devices
Hearing or vision impairment: Difficulty using a phone or screen without additional support
Cognitive impairment: People with dementia may find telehealth confusing or distressing without carer support

For these situations, phone-only consultations, carer-assisted video calls, or in-person visits remain the best options.

Clinical Limitations

Diagnostic accuracy: Some conditions require physical examination for accurate diagnosis
Therapeutic relationship: Some patients and providers find it harder to build rapport through a screen
Complex presentations: Multifactorial health issues may benefit from a thorough in-person assessment

Telehealth and Residential Aged Care

Telehealth is not limited to people living at home. Residents in aged care facilities can also access telehealth services.

How Telehealth Works in Residential Care

Facility staff can help residents connect with their GP or specialist via video or phone
Telehealth reduces the need for ambulance transport to hospital outpatient appointments
After-hours telehealth services can provide clinical support to facility nurses when a resident’s condition changes
Specialist consultations that would otherwise require a hospital visit can be completed from the facility

Benefits for Residential Aged Care

Reduced hospital transfers: Fewer unnecessary transfers to emergency departments for non-urgent issues
Faster specialist input: Geriatricians, psychiatrists, and palliative care specialists can review residents more quickly
Less disruption: Residents do not need to leave their familiar environment for routine appointments
Family involvement: Family members can join consultations remotely

Telehealth Platforms Used in Australian Aged Care

Several platforms are commonly used for telehealth in Australian aged care:

Healthdirect Video Call: A free, government-funded platform that works in a web browser. No app download or account creation required. Widely used by GPs and specialists
Coviu: An Australian-developed telehealth platform used by many allied health providers. Offers features like shared screens and document sharing
Zoom for Healthcare: A HIPAA-compliant version of Zoom used by some specialist practices
Provider-specific apps: Some larger healthcare organisations have their own telehealth apps integrated into their patient portal
Phone consultations: Standard phone calls remain a valid and widely used telehealth option, especially for older patients

Most platforms require no account creation from the patient. The provider sends a link via email or SMS, and the patient clicks the link to join the consultation.

Privacy and Security

Telehealth in Australia is subject to the same privacy protections as in-person healthcare.

All telehealth platforms used by healthcare providers must comply with the Australian Privacy Act 1988 and the My Health Records Act 2012
Video consultations are encrypted and not recorded unless you give explicit consent
E-prescriptions are transmitted securely and can only be dispensed by an authorised pharmacy
Your telehealth records are stored in the same medical record system as your in-person records
Providers must verify your identity before a telehealth consultation, just as they would in person

If you have concerns about privacy, ask your provider what platform they use and how your information is protected.

Tips for a Successful Telehealth Experience

For the Patient

Schedule at a good time: Choose a time when you are alert and not likely to be interrupted
Prepare your questions: Write them down before the appointment
Have medications visible: Place all current medications on the table so the provider can see them
Sit in good lighting: Face a window or light source so the provider can see you clearly on video
Use headphones if possible: This can improve audio quality and privacy
Ask for clarification: If you do not understand something, ask the provider to explain it again

For Family Members and Carers

Help with setup: Assist with downloading apps, testing the camera, and connecting to the call
Be present if needed: With the patient’s consent, sit in on the consultation to help with communication
Take notes: Write down key points, medication changes, and follow-up instructions
Follow up: Help the patient action any next steps after the appointment

For Home Care Package Recipients

Talk to your provider: Ask whether telehealth allied health is available through your package
Compare costs: Telehealth sessions may cost less than in-person visits due to reduced travel charges
Include it in your care plan: Ensure telehealth services are documented in your individualised care plan
Combine approaches: Use telehealth for routine follow-ups and in-person visits for initial assessments or hands-on therapy

The Future of Telehealth in Aged Care

Telehealth in aged care continues to evolve. Key developments include:

Remote patient monitoring (RPM): Devices that transmit blood pressure, blood glucose, weight, and oxygen levels to healthcare providers in real time. RPM allows proactive management of chronic conditions and early detection of deterioration
Wearable health technology: Smartwatches and wearable sensors that track heart rate, activity levels, sleep patterns, and falls. These devices can alert providers and family members to changes in health status
AI-assisted screening: Emerging tools that use video analysis to screen for conditions like depression, cognitive decline, and movement disorders during telehealth consultations
Virtual reality rehabilitation: Early-stage programs using VR for physiotherapy exercises, cognitive stimulation, and social engagement for older adults
Integrated care platforms: Systems that combine telehealth, electronic health records, medication management, and care coordination into a single platform for aged care providers

These technologies are at various stages of development and adoption in Australia. As they mature, they will expand the range of services that can be delivered remotely and improve outcomes for older Australians receiving care at home.

How Carevo Can Help

Navigating aged care services, including telehealth options, can be complex. Carevo is a connection platform that helps older Australians and their families find providers who offer telehealth and in-home services.

Whether you are looking for a Home Care Package provider that includes telehealth allied health, or you want to compare providers in your area, Carevo connects you with aged care professionals who can help.

Call 1800 953 253 to find a provider that offers telehealth services alongside in-home care through Carevo. You can also explore your options at carevo.com.au.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can older Australians use telehealth?

Yes. Telehealth is available to all Australians, including aged care recipients. Medicare covers GP telehealth consultations, and HCP or Support at Home funding can cover allied health telehealth. There is no age restriction on accessing telehealth services.

What aged care services can be done via telehealth?

GP consultations, specialist reviews, psychology, dietetics, some physiotherapy assessments, speech therapy, medication reviews, and care plan reviews can all be done via telehealth. Services that require physical examination or hands-on treatment still need in-person visits.

Is telehealth covered by Medicare for aged care?

Yes. Medicare rebates apply to telehealth GP and specialist consultations. Phone-only consultations are specifically covered for patients aged 65 and over. Allied health telehealth may be covered through a Team Care Arrangement (up to five sessions per year) or through HCP and Support at Home funding.

What technology do I need for telehealth?

For video consultations, you need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet access, a camera, and a microphone. For phone consultations, any phone is sufficient. Many providers offer phone-only options for patients who do not have access to video technology.

Is telehealth as good as in-person visits?

For many consultations, telehealth is equally effective. Research shows it is particularly good for follow-ups, medication reviews, chronic disease management, and mental health sessions. Physical examinations, diagnostic procedures, and initial assessments may still require in-person visits. Many providers use a blended approach, combining telehealth and in-person care for the best outcomes.

Can my family member join a telehealth appointment?

Yes. With your consent, family members or carers can join a telehealth consultation. This is one of the key advantages of telehealth, as family members in different locations can participate without needing to be physically present. This is especially valuable for families who live interstate or overseas.

How do I get a telehealth appointment?

Contact your GP, specialist, or allied health provider and ask for a telehealth appointment. Most practices now offer telehealth as a standard booking option. You will be given a link to click or a phone number to call at the appointment time. If you receive a Home Care Package, ask your provider about including telehealth allied health services in your care plan.

Telehealth for Aged Care in Australia (2026)