With current fuel supply disruptions, some practices may already be noticing changes in how patients prefer to access care, particularly increased requests for telehealth consultations to avoid travel.

While telephone consultations remain widely used, practices are encouraged to continue offering video consultations where clinically appropriate, to support quality care and reduce the risk of unintended MBS compliance issues, including those related to the 30/20 rule.

To support telehealth delivery, COORDINARE recommends the continued use of secure platforms such as Healthdirect Video Call, which is:

As more consultations occur remotely, practices may also see increased patient requests for prescriptions to be sent electronically. Electronic prescriptions, including the Active Script List (ASL), provide a practical way to support ongoing medication access without requiring patients to attend the practice.

The ASL enables patients to maintain a single, secure list of their active electronic prescriptions, which can be accessed by their prescriber and pharmacy, supporting safer and more flexible medication management in the community.

Practices planning to increase their use of video consultations and e-prescriptions are encouraged to embed these tools into routine workflows to support continuity of care during this period.

We are also seeking feedback from service providers on any current or emerging impacts of fuel cost or supply pressures on health service delivery across South Eastern NSW.

👉 Please share your insights via this short survey.

Your input will help inform our ongoing response and support for the region.

For further information or support with telehealth or electronic prescribing, please contact the Digital Health team at digitalhealth@coordinare.org.au.