If you have never tried telehealth appointments before, the process probably feels less familiar than it should. That is not because it is complicated. It is because most people have not had anyone explain it plainly. This article does exactly that, walking you through what happens before, during, and after an online consultation so you can go in knowing what to expect.

What Telehealth Actually Is

Telehealth is medical care delivered online. You speak with a qualified doctor or nurse practitioner over video or phone, discuss your health concerns, and receive a treatment plan, all without stepping into a clinic. It runs on the same clinical standards as an in-person visit. The difference is convenience.

In Australia, telehealth has expanded considerably in recent years. It is a genuine option for people managing ongoing conditions, seeking a second opinion, or those unable to access local healthcare during standard hours. You can read more about the digital health standards in Australia on the Australian Digital Health Agency website.

Before Your Appointment

Booking is straightforward

No referral is needed in most cases. New patients select a New Patient Consultation, while existing patients book a Follow-Up Consultation. Horizon Health uses HotDoc for all bookings to handle your information securely. You will receive a confirmation once your spot is locked in.

A lot of people ask whether they need to prepare anything in advance. The short answer is yes. Before your session, take a few minutes to write down your main symptoms, how long you have had them, and any medications you are currently taking. This gives your doctor a clear starting point.

What you need on the day

Your setup does not need to be complicated. A stable internet connection, a quiet space, and a device with a working speaker are enough. Camera use is optional, but it can help your doctor get a clearer picture of your wellbeing.

During the Consultation

The initial appointment

An initial consultation at Horizon Health runs for 45 minutes. This gives the doctor enough time to take a proper medical history and develop a personalised treatment plan. This is a real clinical conversation where your doctor will ask about your lifestyle and what treatments have worked for you in the past.

What comes out of it

By the end of the initial session, you will have a clear treatment direction. This might include a personalised care plan, lifestyle recommendations, or a schedule for follow-up consultations. You can learn more about how personalised care plans work through the Healthdirect Australia guide on chronic disease management.

After the Consultation

Follow-up care

Follow-up consultations run for 15 minutes and serve a specific purpose: checking your progress and adjusting your plan if needed. Many people ask how often they need to follow up. Your doctor will advise based on your individual situation, but regular check-ins are generally recommended in the early stages of a new plan.

Pricing

Both initial and follow-up consultations at Horizon Health are priced at $29. Concession and budget treatment options are available for those who need them. There are no hidden fees or gap payments. The pricing is fixed and transparent, which makes it easier to access care consistently.

Key Things to Know

• It is real medical care: Consultations are conducted by registered practitioners applying genuine clinical judgment.
• You stay in control: Your doctor will not access your My Health Record without your consent.
• Barriers are removed: No travel and no waiting rooms mean quality healthcare is available to any Australian, regardless of location.
• Follow-up is essential: Consistent check-ins with your doctor are what turn a starting plan into actual health progress.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a referral to book a telehealth appointment?
In most cases, no. Horizon Health allows patients to book directly without a referral.
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Is telehealth as thorough as seeing a doctor face to face?
For the majority of health concerns, yes. A qualified doctor can assess your symptoms and review your history remotely. If your condition requires a physical examination, your doctor will guide you accordingly.

‍How long does a telehealth consultation take?
Initial consultations are 45 minutes, while follow-up consultations are 15 minutes. This ensures there is enough time for a deep assessment at the start of your journey.

‍Can you access telehealth from anywhere in Australia?
Yes. As long as you have a phone or internet connection, you can attend your appointment from wherever you are in the country.