Summary

This project aimed to develop a simpler, more robust (i.e. reliable with built-in backup systems), and affordable telehealth system using NBN satellite connectivity and a range of telecommunications and diagnostic tools to enhance telehealth access and usage in remote Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs).

The project team developed and piloted innovative technological solutions – a telehealth-specific Sky Muster product, a new Telehealth Video Conferencing System, and a range of support tools – for telehealth implementation across seven additional remote Aboriginal communities.

The project focused on three areas:

1. Internet connectivity: Development of an NBN Sky Muster product specifically designed for telehealth use.

2. Telehealth Video System: Development of a reliable, simple, cost effective, and user-friendly Telehealth Video System (TVS) using a combination of hardware (computers, smartphones, cameras) and software (e.g. video conferencing tools) optimised for NBN Sky Muster.

3. Operator Capacity: Development of training, support, troubleshooting, and messaging tools tailored for ACCHOs to support effective telehealth delivery.

Expected outcomes

Development of NBN Sky Muster Internet Product: The project introduced community members to new digital communications technologies, provided training, and created an ongoing roles for local people. It improved health outcomes by creating better methods for diagnosing and managing community health.

Telehealth Video System (TVS) Development: During the project, seven remote Aboriginal Communities implemented telehealth services in two homeland areas – Puntukurnu (Pilbara) and Laynhapuy (East Arnhem) – using the TVS developed through this project. An additional three communities in the Laynhapuy homelands  are expected to adopt the system once they gain confidence in NBN product and realise sufficient cost savings through telehealth.

Patient travel savings: Telehealth implementation in remote Aboriginal communities led to a reduction in the need for community members to travel for specialist appointments and emergency evacuations.

Increasing Medicare income for service providers: The project supported the adoption of new Medicare Telehealth items numbers into clinical practice for remote health services, with assistance from Synapse Medical Services. For example, if  an on-site GP sees 10 patients per day and claim MBS item 36 (scheduled fee $73.95), this could generate approximately $185,000 in additional annual income.

Increased access to a wider range of health services: The wider uptake of telehealth among participating ACCHOs resulted in increased access to a broader range of health services.