Telehealth services refer to the use of technology, such as telecommunication and digital platforms, to provide healthcare services remotely. These services enable patients to access medical consultations, health assessments, advice, and treatment from healthcare professionals without the need for in-person visits. Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in situations where patients may have difficulty accessing healthcare facilities physically or when there is a need for remote or urgent medical care. Here are some key aspects of telehealth services: Video Consultations: One of the primary forms of telehealth is video consultations, where patients and healthcare professionals communicate via video conferencing platforms. This method allows for face-to-face interactions and visual assessments, making it particularly useful for non-emergency medical consultations, follow-up appointments, and mental health support. Telehealth services can also be conducted over the phone, allowing patients to speak with healthcare providers directly for medical advice, prescriptions, or follow-up care. Telehealth technology allows for remote monitoring of patients' health conditions. For example, patients with chronic conditions can use wearable devices or home monitoring equipment to track their vital signs, which can be transmitted to healthcare providers for real-time monitoring and adjustments to treatment plan. Healthcare Access in Rural and Remote Areas:Telehealth has been instrumental in improving access to healthcare services for people living in rural and remote areas where medical facilities may be limited. It reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for consultations or specialty care. After-Hours Care and Emergencies: Telehealth services can provide medical advice and support during after-hours when regular healthcare facilities might be closed. In some cases, telehealth platforms can assist in triaging and connecting patients to emergency services. Prescriptions and Referrals: Through telehealth, healthcare providers can issue prescriptions, provide medical certificates, and make referrals to specialists when necessary. Mental Health Support: Telehealth is particularly valuable in delivering mental health services, as it allows individuals to access counseling and therapy from the privacy of their own homes, reducing the stigma often associated with seeking mental health support.>Telemedicine in Specialised Fields. Telehealth is also used in specialised fields, such as tele-radiology for remote interpretation of medical images and tele-pathology for remote examination of tissue samples >Patient Education: Telehealth platforms can be used to deliver educational materials and resources to patients, promoting preventive care and healthy lifestyle choices. It's important to note that the availability and scope of telehealth services may vary depending on the healthcare system and regulations in different countries. Additionally, while telehealth offers many benefits, there are certain medical situations that still require in-person examinations and treatments. Telehealth should complement traditional healthcare services to provide comprehensive and effective patient care. The TGA Authorised Prescriber Scheme allows TGA Authorised Medical Practitioners to prescribe medicines, medical devices or biologicals that are not included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods to a class of patients with a particular medical condition.