“Telehealth guidance updated”
09 Oct 2025
Ahpra has updated its telehealth guidance to strengthen the doctor-patient relationship and address concerns about single-issue online providers.
The update highlights poor practices where prescriptions are given based only on text, email, or online questionnaires, rather than a proper consultation via face-to-face, video, or telephone.
For most medical practitioners, the changes will have little impact, as the update mainly extends the guidance to other health professions. The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has consistently raised concerns about online providers who prescribe medications, such as medicinal cannabis, without a meaningful consultation.
Ahpra clarified its guidance after initial confusion over wording suggesting prescriptions could only be given if there had been a previous face-to-face consultation. The updated guidance confirms that video and telephone consultations also meet the requirement.
Ahpra further advised:
“National Boards do not support prescribing medicine or other health services to a patient without a prior consultation, whether face-to-face, via video, or telephone. Prescriptions based solely on text, email, online questionnaires, or chats are not considered acceptable practice.”
Source: Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra)
