Telehealth services provided by ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation) in New Zealand allow patients to access healthcare remotely, without the need for in-person visits to healthcare providers. This service is especially useful for individuals who may not be able to visit a clinic due to distance, mobility issues, or during situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key Features of ACC's Telehealth Service:
- Remote Consultations: Telehealth allows clients to consult with physiotherapists, doctors, or other healthcare providers via video calls, phone calls, or online messaging. These consultations are focused on managing and treating injuries covered by ACC.
- Assessment and Treatment: Through telehealth, healthcare providers can assess your injury, offer advice on recovery and treatment plans, and monitor progress remotely. Providers can guide you through exercises or recommend therapies that can be done at home.
- Convenience: Telehealth services reduce the need for travel and allow individuals to access care from the comfort of their home, making it easier for those with busy schedules or limited mobility to receive timely care.
- Covered by ACC: As long as your injury is covered by ACC, you can access these services at no extra charge. If telehealth is appropriate for your treatment, ACC will cover the costs associated with remote consultations, just as it would for in-person visits.
- Follow-ups: After an initial in-person visit, follow-up care can often be conducted via telehealth, saving time and resources while ensuring ongoing support for your recovery.
Eligibility for Telehealth with ACC:
- You must have a claim accepted by ACC for an injury.
- Your healthcare provider (e.g., physiotherapist, GP) must be set up to provide telehealth services.
- The provider will assess whether telehealth is appropriate for your injury or if an in-person consultation is needed.
Benefits of Telehealth with ACC:
- Access to care for individuals in rural or remote locations.
- Convenience of receiving care without leaving home.
- Cost-effective option for follow-ups and ongoing treatment.
- Continuity of care during circumstances where in-person visits are challenging, like during lockdowns or travel restrictions.
Note: Not all conditions or treatments are suitable for telehealth. Your healthcare provider will determine whether remote consultations are appropriate for your injury or condition.