MBPH's Telehealth
Telehealth appointments are now being offered in some Mildura Base Public Hospital Outpatient Clinics, such as Cancer Services, Mental Health Services and Pediatric Services.
Telehealth is a consultation between a patient and a specialist, and includes the use of an audio and video connection via your computer, mobile phone or tablet. Family members or other health professionals, including your local General Practitioner, may also be involved in the Telehealth consultation. It is just like any other outpatient appointment at a Mildura Base Public Hospital clinic, conducted virtually rather than face-to-face.
Access to Telehealth for patients, families and outside callers
Access to Telehealth for Staff
Telehealth may not be suitable for all patients or appointments; your specialist may recommend and offer a Telehealth consultation if appropriate.
Telehealth for Community & Allied Health Services Brochure
Benefits of Telehealth
Telehealth has a number of benefits including:
- Your appointment can be conducted anywhere, in your home, with your local healthcare professional or even at work
- Less or no travel time
- You can use telehealth on any laptop, desktop computer, tablet or smartphone
- Video calls are secure and private
- The video call is free (except for your internet usage). However, the regular costs (if any) of a medical consultation still apply
Preparing for Appoinment
- Once you are booked in, you will receive a confirmation letter outlining the date and time of your appointment
- What you need to make a video call – click here to find out more
- We advise trying a test call well in advance of your appointment to ensure audio, camera and internet is working correctly. You can test your systems here.
Setup and Troubleshooting
Tips for Your Appoinment
- Find a quiet, private space for your call
- Ensure the space is well lit
- Ensure good connection to a secured internet connection
- Follow the instructions on your appointment letter and dial in to the appointment approximately 10 minutes before the scheduled start time and wait for the clinician to join.
- Have a pen and paper handy to take down any key notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Telehealth just as good as a face to face consultation?
Seeing your specialist by internet-based video can be just as effective as a face-to-face appointment. Mildura Base Public Hospital will maintain a high standard of care regardless of whether you attend an appointment in person or via video. Your specialist will decide, based on your specific needs, condition and treatment plan, whether a video call appointment will meet this standard and is suitable for your next appointment.
Are Telehealth consultations safe, private and confidential?
All Telehealth consultations are private, confidential and adhere to the same clinical standards as face-to-face consultations at Mildura Base Public Hospital.
What happens if the internet connection is lost?
The consultation will be continued by telephone or another appointment time will be booked.
What if I need to change my appointment?
Please call the contact details on your Mildura Base Public Hospital appointment letter if:
- Your appointment needs to be rescheduled – we will organise a new date and time.
- Your situation changes and you would like to attend your next appointment in person – we will organise a face-to-face appointment at Mildura Base Public Hospital.
Can my family or carer join me in my Telehealth appointment?
Yes, your family or carer can sit with you during your appointment, just as with a face-to-face appointment.
Can an interpreter support me in my Telehealth appointment?
Yes, please ask staff for an interpreter when booking in for your telehealth appointment and we can arrange this service.
What if I’m running late?
- If you are running late, we cannot guarantee that a clinician will be available at a different time.
- We recommend that you press the ‘Start Video Call’ button on the Mildura Base Public Hospital telehealth site at least 10 minutes before your telehealth appointment. This will let you choose the relevant clinic and wait for your clinician to start the call.
What if my specialist is running late?
- Sometimes, just like a face-to-face appointment, telehealth appointments can run behind schedule. We appreciate your patience.
- Please call the contact details on your appointment letter if you have been waiting more than 30 minutes after your scheduled appointment time.
What equipment do I need? Do I need to install software to use Health Direct?
- Access to a computer, iPad, smart phone or other device
- A good internet connection
- A private, well lit area
- Web camera, speakers and a microphone
Can I use my smart phone?
Yes. However Mildura Base Public Hospital recommends that if you have access to a computer or iPad that this device be used (for better picture quality and sound).
Get in touch
If you have any additional questions about Mildura Base Public Hospital's services, please contact us.
