What is Telehealth?

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 Today 

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. 

The benefits of online GP consultations are many, including: 

• Zero travel time to your appointment
• No waiting or queuing
• See a doctor almost immediately, with same-day appointments often available
• Take advantage of extended appointment hours – Bettr is available 7 days a week 8am–8pm
• Stay safe at home without seeing other sick people 
• Helping to create better access for more patients, making our health system fairer for everybody
• Perfect for those with limited mobility and elderly or infirm patients who may struggle with transfers to appointments
• Accessible for those who live in remote areas
• Save money with lower cost appointments than in-person – Bettr offers New Zealand’s cheapest online consultations at just $10 if you are enrolled with our network.