Telehealth
Our therapists are trained to deliver telehealth services and are creative, responsive and flexible in their telehealth delivery. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth has become an alternative approach to support ongoing therapy for our clients, while ensuring their health and safety, and that of their families and our therapists.
What is telehealth?
Telehealth is a convenient way of delivering effective evidence-based allied health therapy services without the need to travel. Telehealth services include speech and language pathology, occupational therapy, physiotherapy and psychology, offered over the internet (through a live video connection) or over the phone.
What are the benefits of telehealth compared to a face-to-face appointment?
Allied health services are considered essential services and telehealth can ensure ongoing therapy to best meet the needs of your child and family.
There are several important benefits to using telehealth including:
- Eliminating health and safety risks such as exposure to COVID-19
- Avoiding cancellation fees and supporting the continuation of therapy service support when you or your child, another family member, or one of our therapists has a minor health condition (e.g. runny nose) or has another barrier to making a clinic appointment (e.g. difficulties with babysitting for siblings, or transport).
- Providing a convenient alternative to face-to-face therapy
- Eliminating travel times and costs, allowing more time for you and your family
- Providing services in your home or other environments (e.g. at school) with familiar surroundings, toys and routines
How does it work?
Telehealth services are very similar to what your child receives in a face-to-face session; it is just done using a computer or mobile device. Instead of being in the same room as the therapist, the face-to-face appointment is virtual; using digital technology (e.g. video conferencing) or over the phone.
If you’ve ever used Teams or Skype on your computer or FaceTime on your iPhone, you’ve already used a similar type of technology! A session will run for as long as a face-to-face session and you will be guided by a therapist the entire time.
ESA’s telehealth services are secure and confidential. Your child’s therapy is our number one priority and will not be any less by using telehealth.
Service delivery varies between clinics so check with your local clinic about their services.
What equipment and space is needed?
Depending on the age of your child and the therapy that is required, you will need:
- A quiet and private space with no distractions
- An adult to support your child with activities (if needed)
- A device (smartphone, computer, laptop) with audio and camera, and access to a reliable internet connection
Contact one of our clinics to book a telehealth appointment today.
Telehealth is funded through NDIS, Medicare and some private health funds during the COVID-19 pandemic. Check with your specific private health fund, if this applies to you, as they are updating rebates at different times.
This program is available at:
- SA | Hindmarsh (p: 08 8346 4580 e: [email protected])
Service delivery varies between clinics so please check with your local clinic about their services.
