RACGP calls for stronger rules around telehealth-only services
14 May 2026
The college says telehealth can support healthcare access, but it should work alongside ongoing care from a patient’s usual GP rather than replace face-to-face general practice.
The statement warns that consultations between patients and doctors who do not know each other should only happen in limited and clinically appropriate situations.
It also says telehealth-only providers must follow stronger regulations and ensure doctors working in these services have the right qualifications.
The RACGP does not support prescribing medication through questionnaire-only services without a real-time consultation, saying this approach may place patient safety at risk.
The college acknowledged that more Australians are using telehealth-only services, especially for convenience, and said the new guidance is aimed at improving safety and care quality within the sector.
Dr Steven Kaye, who helped lead the position statement, said telehealth providers should understand they are offering limited care and are not replacing full general practice services.
He said regular GPs are able to provide more complete and long-term care because they understand a patient’s medical history, ongoing health needs, and broader wellbeing.
The RACGP also raised concerns about some telehealth services focusing heavily on specific products or treatments, including medicinal cannabis and online weight-loss services.
The college warned that financial interests should never influence prescribing decisions or patient care.
The statement says telehealth providers should share important health information with a patient’s regular GP or upload details to My Health Record to support safer long-term care.
It also calls for stronger oversight to reduce inappropriate prescribing, protect patient privacy, and prevent misleading marketing targeting vulnerable people.
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