- Author CRCNA and research partners
- Publish date 10 March 2026
- Type Report
- Documents
- Health service delivery
Summary
This impact evaluation summarises the outcomes of CRCNA projects:
- H.5.1920041 – Development of a simple, robust telehealth system; and
- H.5.2223001 – Innovative primary health service managed by Telehealth Technicians for very remote Aboriginal communities.
These projects, led by Simbani Research have developed and demonstrated a simple, robust and affordable telehealth model for very remote Aboriginal communities. Implemented in Gawa in north-east Arnhem Land, the projects established a managed community Wi-Fi network that improved digital inclusion and enabled reliable access to telehealth services and digital health platforms such as My Health Record.
The projects also co-designed a community-led primary health model, introducing the Telehealth Technician role to support consultations, health assessments and care coordination. This model has evolved into the culturally grounded Djagamirr role, strengthening local capability, improving preventative healthcare and reducing avoidable medical evacuations while supporting Closing the Gap Target 17.
Projects
Development of innovative primary health service managed by Telehealth Technicians for very remote First Nations’ communities.
Very remote First Nations homelands often lack on-community health services. These communities are typically supported through hub-and-spoke models with outreach visits, though the quality and frequency of services can vary. Telehealth may offer a long-term solution by improving continuity of care and expanding access to a broader range of healthcare services within the existing model of care. Providing community Wi-Fi and establishing regular access to health services via telehealth – supported by appropriately trained and supported community members – could help close service gaps and improve health outcomes for smaller, remote First Nations communities. Through this project, a number of community members will be trained in the use of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and smart diagnostic/monitoring tools to help facilitate access to a range of health services via telehealth. The development of this new role – “Telehealth Technician” – will support the transition from minimal or non-existent health services to proactive, comprehensive primary care. The project will also include an analysis of the current funding model, identify potential funding sources to support Telehealth Technicians, and outline the human and technical requirements for successful implementation.
Developing a simple, robust telehealth system for remote communities
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.