Telehealth is defined as the distribution of health – or health related – services delivered through communication technologies such as mobile phones, laptops, tablets or computers. It is used to deliver remote health care to patients who are not in the same physical location as the health care provider – think Zoom but to see your doctor or health professional.
Modern technology, innovation and circumstance have all accelerated a shift, and advanced how healthcare is delivered to patients. Telehealth makes quality healthcare more accessible, and so much more convenient. Health providers can now collaborate more effectively and immediately, and can support patients from initial consultations through to remote follow-up care, all via online. Telehealth is delivered through phone and video calls, and can also include other online tools such as apps and patient portal systems.
Telehealth has many different labels in 2020, from telemedicine to virtual doctors or online doctors. Online appointments have become even more relevant, with Covid-19 making it much more difficult and stressful to visit a doctor in-person in many places, and accelerating the uptake of remote care solutions. Telehealth helps you avoid both hassle and risk, letting you see a GP or health professional from the comfort of your couch, car or anywhere else you please.
Bettr Telehealth consultations can be done by either voice or video call and all you need is your mobile device or computer and a good internet connection. If internet is a problem, a telehealth consultation can be done by phone too.
Many illnesses or conditions can be taken care of through a virtual consultation with a GP, using just your computer, tablet or phone. Telehealth is also helpful in coordinating follow-up care like specialist treatment referrals (such as physiotherapy) or test referrals.
Despite some patients having concerns that a doctor might need to see them in person to correctly diagnose and treat, in most situations, ‘seeing’ the patient video, alongside their patient history and a good conversation is enough to ensure accurate treatment is possible. In instances where online consultations are not enough and a physical examination might be necessary, patients can be referred for a face-to-face visit as the next step. Bettr is part of Tamaki Health’s network that includes over 50 physical clinics across New Zealand, so it’s easy to take this step when it’s needed.
You can see what issues are suitable and not suitable in our services section.
With Bettr, you don’t even have to download an app. You simply join your consultation using your internet browser. Just click the invitation link you will receive via SMS or email.
Suafai, August 2020
Absolutely loved it!!! The Doctor was awesome! I loved that he was able to organise prescription & also my Winz form etc. Also receiving the text about choosing a pharmacy to pick up my prescription is just great!! All from the comfort of my home & warm slippers!!!!
Dee, December 2020
Such a seamless and stress free process, convenient and straight forward, the easiest option as opposed to making an appointment and going in to see the doctor. Less wait time, avoiding the queues, reasonable cost, highly recommend this service.
Molly, August 2020
Just leaving some feedback to let you know the Telehealth appointment was awesome! Being a mum, it can be such a hassle to take my baby with me to my normal GP office! The video call was so handy, I even did it in my dressing gown! My doctor was very thorough and got to know me. I will be recommending it to friends and family!
Bailey, January 2021
I think this is an incredibly inclusive and progressive service and believe it will be beneficial to so many New Zealanders. Affordable, convenient and safe. I've already told many family and friends.
Nadia, October 2020
Fabulous consult listened well to my concerns, awesome Doctor. Bettr is an amazing service that I find really helpful, fast and efficient! It's easy to see a doctor without sitting in a clinic for hours with children! Will definitely be back and will recommend to others.
Aveta, December 2020
I was scared at first but prepared myself 5 mins before my scheduled appointment, I was nervous but my video consult with the doctor went well. It's awesome. Where have you been all my life when I've been waiting in a line. Thank you.
Alfred, October 2020
That was the best phone call for help and advice that I’ve ever had. Dr Smart is an amazing person who has excellent empathy and should be commended. 10/10 would recommend.
Ace, July 2020
I just wanted to voice how wonderful the video consultation was, it was easy and very convenient especially with a young toddler.
Also just wanted to emphasise that the video consultation service you provide is the best thing I have experienced in health care. Thank you
Hargun, November 2020
I love it. It’s really good initiative. I don’t drive and every time I need to go to a clinic, I have to take a taxi or public transport. The travel and wait for the doctor saves so much time. Please keep online appointments going. Thank you!
Wendy, October 2020
Awesome, love it now I get to see the same doctor, no waiting at the doctor's feeling more sick amongst other strangers. Great that my prescription gets emailed to me as well as the lab test.
Rinal, July 2020
This is amazing help for patients who can’t go out to a walk-in surgery. I had a really good experience. Thank you
Bunny, July 2020
I was sceptical about having a video call as I wanted the doctor to see my concerns but I’m comfortable that the doctor has given me the best treatment possible. Thank you
Keely, November 2020
Such a friendly doctor to consult with. Happy to continue using this online/virtual consultation as it is a lot better and easier than waiting several hours at the clinic to see a doctor, just to get a prescription.
Taylor, July 2020
I have nothing but a positive response to my consultation. A much better experience than having to wait in the queue for 2 hours to only get a brief appointment with a Dr. The Dr was very informative, knowledgeable and caring. Thank you again.
Mitali, August 2020
Absolutely fantastic experience. Getting all my concerns resolved over a phone call face-to-face with the doctor is simply amazing.
Kim, August 2020
Think this is a great idea. Perfect for repeat prescriptions, blood test form requests and chronic illness.
Get access to all the services of Local Doctors including Bettr and face-to-face consultations.
The price of Bettr consulations drops to $10, and under 14s are free!
If you require face to face to treatment following your online consult, you can be referred to one of our nearly 50 GP clinics from Whangarei to Christchurch.
Bettr Online Doctors connects you with a qualified NZ based online Doctor in minutes via our virtual consult platform. Offering you the choice of a video or phone consultation, same-day appointments, medical certificates, and online prescriptions Bettr is revolutionising how you see your GP. Learn more