Telehealth Efficacy Demonstrated Despite Policy Barriers

Since its rapid adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth—delivering healthcare services via phone or video calls—has become an essential component of healthcare in Australia and globally. This mode of medical care offers convenience and accessibility, especially for those unable to visit healthcare facilities in person.

Recent research led by Dr. Maria Alejandra Pinero de Plaza from Flinders University’s Caring Futures Institute highlights the significant benefits of telehealth for homebound individuals. The study, published in the journal Health & Social Care in the Community, is the first comprehensive global systematic review and meta-analysis examining telehealth's impact on healthcare utilization, quality of life, and overall well-being.

The findings show that telehealth helps reduce hospital visits, enhances mental health, and fosters greater social engagement among users. It also alleviates pain, improves mental health conditions, and reduces feelings of loneliness and depression. Importantly, the research emphasizes that for many homebound patients—those with chronic illnesses, disabilities, frailty, or mental health issues—telehealth is more than just a convenience; it is a vital lifeline.

Despite its proven effectiveness, current Medicare policies in Australia require patients to have had an in-person consultation with a general practitioner within the past year to qualify for telehealth rebates. This requirement poses a significant barrier for the very individuals who are most in need of remote care, many of whom cannot leave their homes.

Dr. Pinero de Plaza advocates for policy reforms to remove this in-person requirement for homebound patients, as well as increased funding for telehealth services. The study also calls for improved data collection to better identify and support homebound populations and ensure their needs are reflected in health policies. Currently, Australia lacks a clear definition of what constitutes being homebound, making it difficult to recognize and serve these individuals effectively.

Research also reveals that the homebound population is diverse, often including younger women with conditions like ME/CFS, advanced cancer, or severe mental illnesses, rather than only elderly individuals. Every day, many Australians miss out on essential care due to restrictive policies, despite evidence supporting telehealth’s capacity to improve health outcomes and quality of life.

This body of work underscores the importance of adapting healthcare policies globally to recognize telehealth as a safe, effective, and vital service. As Dr. Pinero de Plaza states, "Telehealth works. It keeps people healthier, safer, and more connected—saving resources and improving lives. Health policies around the world should ensure its accessibility."

Building on initiatives like the Visibility and Technological Solutions for Frail, Homebound and Bedridden People (FHBP) research program, these findings aim to foster more inclusive, evidence-based healthcare reforms that address the needs of some of the most isolated populations.