Telehealth, how it works

Telehealth is a way to make a secure private video call a clinical person at Orygen Youth Health rather than having to travel to our site to see them. It will be trialled for a limited range of services so initially will only be available if you have been informed that you can attend your appointment by Telehealth.

Where do I go to attend my appointment?

Instead of travelling to your appointment, you enter our Telehealth online waiting area  through your computer, phone or tablet. Orygen are notified when you arrive, and your clinician will join you when ready.

There is no need to create an account. No information you enter is stored.

What do I need to make a video call?

  • A good connection to the internet.
  • If you can watch a video online  
  • (e.g. YouTube) you can make a video call
  • A private, well-lit area where you will not be disturbed during the consultation. You should feel comfortable to speak openly to make sure that you get the most benefit from the appointment.
  • If you are connecting from a desktop or laptop (Windows or Mac), or an Android tablet or smartphone you will need Google Chrome web browser. If you are connecting from an iPad or iPhone you can now connect through Safari, an extra app is no longer needed.
  • You will also need a webcam, speakers and a microphone. These are already built into laptops or mobile devices.

Is it secure?

Video calls are secure; your privacy is protected. You have your own private video room, that only authorised clinicians can enter.

How much does a video call cost?

The video call is free (except for your internet usage). However, the regular costs – if any – of a medical consultation still apply.

How much internet data will I use?

You don’t use any data while waiting for a clinician to join you.

A video consultation uses less than half of the data you would use while watching a YouTube video in High Definition. That's about 230 MB on a mobile device, and 450 MB on a PC for a 20 minute call, which is similar to Skype® or FaceTime®.

Data use is less on lower-speed internet connections, or if you’re using a less powerful computer, tablet, or smartphone. These factors can also reduce the overall quality of the call.

Data use increases when there are more than two participants in the call.

Smartphone & tablet users

If you can, connect to a home Wi-Fi network to avoid using your mobile data allowance.

You are not obliged to attend your appointment by Telehealth. If you dont have access to a space where you feel private enough or you dont have sufficient internet speed and bandwidth, you can always have a regular face-to-face appointment.

Return to the Telehealth page