Eligible patients are now able to access medication reviews from a pharmacist via video or teleconference. Accredited pharmacists are also allowed to provide two additional follow-ups for Home Medicines Reviews (HMRs) and Residential Medication Management Reviews (RMMRs) with patients within nine months of the initial review. For pharmacists, it’s important to consider the following:
- Discuss the appropriateness of a telehealth consult: There is an eligibility criteria for medications reviews and MedsChecks (that is funded) that is clearly outlined.
- Remember to gain and document informed consent: If you haven’t documented consent then that funding will need to be refunded
- Familiarise yourself with the program rules, and the professional guidelines for service delivery. If I can make a call out to people – familiarise yourself with two documents: The program rules & Professional Guidelines for Service Delivery
- Be aware of privacy considerations: Privacy is really important, especially to health consumers. Any recordings must have consent, and recordings should only be considered if there is a potential threat or need.
- Check your indemnity insurance covers telehealth consultations: Check your professional indemnity insurance covers telehealth and teleconferencing, as there is potential for some providers not to cover them.
Check out Nicolette chatting about Telehealth on Pharmaceutical Society of Australia’s podcast series: Covid-19: Your Telehealth Questions Answered
