Consumers

There are significant barriers for some patients in accessing technology and these include:

• affordability of devices
• access to the internet and reliable internet connectivity, particularly in rural and remote areas
• data requirements – both the cost of mobile data and access to reliable data connections
• a lack of translated information for people who speak English as a second language, and
• limited skills and knowledge and a lack confidence to use and engage with various technologies

GPs and practice teams more broadly are well placed to support patients to develop their skills and confidence to use health care technologies and to access reliable and evidence-based health information.

As an example, some practice managers speak with patients in the waiting room about what digital health tools the practice uses and how to access these.

We have developed a guide for patients on ‘Having a phone or video consultation with your regular GP’ which helps patients set to get the most out of their telehealth consultations. We are currently working on some additional resources for general practices that can be shared with their patients to encourage the uptake of digital tools.