The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has today released a practical, easy to interpret, guide for GPs and their staff looking to establish video consulting within their practice.
The newly revised guide, Implementation guidelines for video consultations in general practice – 3rd edition, provides simplified guidance on a range of related implementation, technical and usage issues.
Key updates covered within the resource include:
- Updated summary of related MBS item numbers and telehealth incentives currently available
- A helpful tool to assist GPs and their staff determine which video conferencing option is best for their practice
- Information on engaging with specialists
- How to manage change
- Advice on using Skype
- Greater technical advice
- A list of video conferencing software and hardware options for clinicians to consider
Dr Mike Civil, Chair of the RACGP Telehealth Standards Taskforce said the guidelines provide an excellent source of user-friendly information for GPs and practice staff keen to undertake video consultations within their practice.
"Video consultations are fast becoming a valued option for practices looking to enable more convenient and accessible healthcare delivery without compromising patient safety.
Dr Civil said in his experience, running regular teleclinics within his practice has been rewarding for his patients and his practice.
Despite the many advantages associated with the delivery of video consultations, Dr Civil acknowledged initially getting started could often present a challenge.
"The guidelines have been designed to walk GPs and their teams through each of the steps required to successfully implement video consultations, without complicated explanations or technical jargon.
To download a copy of the Implementation guidelines for video consultations in general practice – 3rd edition, visit www.racgp.org.au/telehealth/gettingstarted.
The RACGP would like to acknowledge the Department of Health and Ageing contribution to the Telehealth Support Project.
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