24/7 Telehealth Rollout Sparks Fears of GP Collapse: Will It Deliver Quality Care?
A leading Australian GP is sounding the alarm over the impending rollout of a new 24/7 telehealth service, warning it could lead to a decline in the quality of general practice and a 'hit and run' approach to patient care. The government's initiative, slated to launch as early as next month, aims to provide round-the-clock access to medical consultations, but concerns are growing about its potential impact on traditional GP services.
Health NZ has confirmed that the service will involve multiple providers operating across a shared digital health record. While proponents argue this offers increased accessibility and convenience, critics fear it will fragment patient care and erode the crucial continuity of care provided by regular GPs.
“This isn’t about opposing telehealth; it's about ensuring patients receive the best possible care,” explains Dr. Eleanor Vance, a spokesperson for the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). “The concern is that a 24/7 system, relying on multiple providers who may not have a complete understanding of a patient's medical history, will inevitably lead to rushed consultations and potentially inaccurate diagnoses.”
The 'Hit and Run' Concern
Dr. Vance’s warning echoes the concerns of many GPs who believe the telehealth model could incentivize a 'hit and run' approach – quick consultations focused on immediate symptoms rather than addressing underlying health issues. This, they argue, could lead to a decline in preventative care and a missed opportunity for building strong doctor-patient relationships.
“General practice is built on trust and continuity,” Dr. Vance continues. “Patients need to feel they have a doctor who knows them, their history, and their individual needs. This is difficult to achieve when consultations are fragmented across multiple providers.”
Digital Health Record: A Double-Edged Sword
The shared digital health record is intended to mitigate some of these concerns, but questions remain about its effectiveness and security. Ensuring all providers have access to accurate and up-to-date information is crucial, but the potential for errors and breaches raises significant concerns.
Impact on General Practice
The RACGP is calling for a thorough evaluation of the 24/7 telehealth service before it is fully implemented. They are urging the government to consider the potential impact on general practice and to ensure that the service complements, rather than undermines, existing healthcare services.
“We need a system that provides patients with the right care, at the right time, and in the right setting,” concludes Dr. Vance. “That means supporting and strengthening general practice, not replacing it with a fragmented telehealth model.”
What's Next?
The rollout of the 24/7 telehealth service is expected to proceed as planned, with further announcements regarding implementation details anticipated in the coming weeks. The debate over its potential impact on general practice is likely to continue, highlighting the ongoing challenges of adapting to the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape in Australia.
