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How NDIS Participants Can Benefit from Telehealth
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How NDIS Participants Can Benefit from Telehealth

With the latest advancements in technology, a broad array of products and health services have become accessible to everyone. NDIS participants can take advantage of these telehealth services to maximise their plans conveniently.

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With the latest advancements in technology, a broad array of products and health services have become accessible to everyone. NDIS participants can take advantage of these telehealth services to maximise their plans conveniently. Telehealth ensures that participants can access high-quality health support from professionals via phone or video calls.

Telehealth services have been around since the 1950s. However, with the dawn of the digital age, they have evolved. In 2020, during the global pandemic, telehealth became more of a necessity than an option. These services were critical in reducing patients' exposure to COVID-19. With its effectiveness, the relevance of telehealth continued post-pandemic.

Recently in Australia, the "Telehealth" claim field was introduced to the NDIS myplace provider portal. This is especially beneficial for those who can't visit their service providers physically. Moreover, the NDIS National Workforce Plan: 2021-2025 highlights the initiative to "enable allied health professionals in rural and remote areas to access professional support via telehealth" as one of 16 government strategies aimed at fostering a responsive workforce.

Available NDIS Services via Telehealth

With telehealth, NDIS participants have access to several health support services, including:

  • Employment-Related Counselling: A dedicated team assists participants in preparing for job readiness. This includes honing skills for applications, interviews, and addressing anxieties related to rejoining the workforce.
  • Life Counselling: This ensures participants always have someone to talk to during challenging times. The team aids in issue identification, plan formulation, and provides connections to local community services. All interactions remain confidential and are tailored to the participant's needs.
  • Support Coordination: This helps participants make the most of their plans, connect with community and governmental services, and develop essential life skills. Support coordinators also assist in liaising with service providers.
  • Recovery Coaching: An expert team works with participants to design and implement a recovery plan.

How to Access Telehealth

Access to health support varies among individuals. Many face challenges due to disabilities, transportation issues, or inadequate support in their regions.

NDIS participants can access telehealth services by:

  • Calling a health support provider
  • Filling out an online form on their website
  • Sending an email

To begin, participants will need:

  • A digital device (laptop, tablet, or smartphone)
  • A stable internet connection
  • A camera and a microphone (either built-in or external)

For those who prefer phone calls or live in areas with unstable internet, telehealth can be done via a regular phone as well.

Typically, the process begins with an initial appointment. After confirming a booking, participants receive detailed information about their session. Some providers even offer a pre-call test to ensure device compatibility and connectivity.

Once everything is set, participants meet the service provider virtually at a scheduled time. The session format mirrors a face-to-face meeting, ensuring familiarity and comfort. These sessions usually last between 30 to 45 minutes.

Sureway Health and Wellbeing employs evidence-based therapies. Their team of health professionals focuses on understanding individual needs.

Benefits of Telehealth Services

Transitioning to telehealth offers numerous advantages, including:

  • Cost and Time Efficiency: Participants can save on travel costs and time.
  • Optimised NDIS Plans: Telehealth rates, whether virtual or in-person, are consistent, allowing for better financial planning.
  • Reduced Health Risks: It offers a safer environment, especially for those who are immuno-compromised.
  • Improved Service Access: Virtual consultations provide a more inclusive experience, enabling support regardless of physical location or disability.

A recent survey by The University of Melbourne and the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) indicated that during the pandemic, 63% of 2391 participants accessed their NDIS allied healthcare services via telehealth, while 31-33% expressed their preference for telehealth – even post-pandemic.

Other insights from the study include:

  • 2 out of 3 participants found telehealth as good as, if not better than, face-to-face sessions.
  • 45% would opt for plan reviews via phone or video.
  • The majority found telehealth user-friendly and felt assured of its effectiveness.

Conclusion

Telehealth services are more than just a modern convenience; they represent a paradigm shift in how health support is delivered. For NDIS participants, the advantages of these services are impactful, from saving on travel costs and time to receiving tailored care in the comfort of one's home. 

Sureway Telehealth Service stands out offering tailored solutions to participants, ensuring they receive the precise support they require. In a world where accessibility is paramount, telehealth bridges the gap, seeing to it that everyone, irrespective of their location or physical abilities, has the opportunity to lead a healthier, more fulfilled life.

To learn more about Sureway’s telehealth services, you can reach us at 1300 787 392.

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