Many Australians delaying GP visits due to rising costs of living

A recent report, Access denied: Australians locked out of quality healthcare, revealed a concerning trend: patients are now delaying or avoiding visits to their GP due to the rising cost of living regardless of income level. In New South Wales, there has been a staggering 246% increase in patients forgoing healthcare since 2020,proving that no one is exempt from feeling the pinch,this widespread impact has led to a 243% rise in people delaying medical care because of the cost

These statistics are alarming. Fortunatley there are solutions available that can make healthcare more accessible and affordable to patients throughout Australia. At Our Sage Telehealth, we offer a practical alternative for patients who need medical advice but are concerned about the financial burden of in-person visits.

How Telehealth Can Help

Affordable Consultations

With increasing pressures of inflation, telehealth offers a more affordable way to access essential healthcare services. Through Our Sage Telehealth, patients can access streamlined telehealth consult options and significantly reducing their out-of-pocket costs. This is especially important to the large percentage of those who may be delaying care due to financial concerns. As outlined by the RACGP, the rising cost of providing in-person care is making it difficult for practices to maintain affordable services. Telehealth bridges this gap by eliminating many overheads, allowing patients to access care without as much financial stress.

Convenience and Accessibility

For many Australians, particularly those in regional areas, waiting times to see a GP can be long. The Access Denied report found that 4.8% of patients in regional NSW were waiting more than 24 hours to see a doctor. Telehealth offers a solution, allowing patients to connect with a GP from the comfort of their home without the need for long waits or travel. This is especially valuable for people living in rural or remote areas, where healthcare services are often harder to access. Telehealth ensures that patients receive timely advice and treatment, preventing minor issues from becoming more serious due to delays in care. Booking a consult through Our Sage means you can be contacted by a GP usually within 15 minutes.

Preventive Healthcare

Preventive care is crucial for long-term health, but it’s often one of the first areas to be neglected when patients avoid the GP due to cost. As noted by RACGP NSW&ACT Chair Dr. Rebekah Hoffman, the rising cost of healthcare is leading to patients presenting later and sicker, missing the opportunity for early intervention. Through Our Sage Telehealth, patients can access routine check-ups, health assessments, referrals for routine blood tests and get access to early treatment,all of which reduce the risk of more severe and costly health problems down the line. By offering affordable telehealth services, we are supporting patients in maintaining their health before more expensive interventions are necessary.

Addressing Healthcare Gaps in Regional Areas

The report also highlights a significant disparity between healthcare access in regional NSW and greater Sydney, with patients in regional areas experiencing delays in care 2.5 times greater. Telehealth has proven to be vital in addressing this issue. Our Sage Telehealth enables patients in rural areas to access quality healthcare without needing to travel long distances. This not only reduces the burden on regional healthcare facilities but also ensures that patients receive the care they need in a timely manner.

Why Choose Our Sage Telehealth?

At Our Sage Telehealth, we understand that the rising cost of living is making it harder for many Australians to prioritise their health. That’s why we offer a convenient, affordable option that allows patients to connect with experienced Healthcare Practioners via phone consultations from just $19. Whether it’s a prescription renewal, a referral, or a general consultation, we’re here to provide the support you need when you need it.

By choosing Our Sage Telehealth, you can take control of your health without the financial strain. Whether you’re in a city or a rural area, our services are designed to make healthcare accessible and affordable for all Australians.

source: RACGP