A new telehealth program currently being trialled in the Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) is making it even easier for people in rural and remote communities to access timely and high-quality health care closer to home.

MLHD is trialling Virtual Hubs to give community members the ability to have telehealth appointments in a dedicated space at a District facility, fitted with the equipment needed for a remote consultation, including a large wall-mounted screen, high-quality camera, speaker, wireless mouse and keyboard.

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said local staff are also on hand to help ensure the Virtual Care appointment goes ahead smoothly.

“This trial about increasing access to Virtual Care and telehealth which continues to deliver high-quality care to people across NSW,” Mr Park said.

“The Virtual Hubs are making a big difference for patients with poor or inadequate internet connectivity, have no access to appropriate equipment at home, or do not have the confidence to use virtual care unaided.

“For patients who have used the Virtual Hubs, healthcare has been convenient and more accessible.”

Andy Corrigan, MLHD Clinical Digital Health Manager, said Virtual Hubs are currently being trialled in Junee Multipurpose Service (MPS), Tumut Hospital, Hillston MPS, Lake Cargelligo MPS, Hay MPS and Deniliquin Hospital.

“The Virtual Hubs are allowing many more of our clients to access timely and high-quality health appointments close to home. We have seen some patients save hours of travel using the Virtual Hubs, instead of having to drive to an appointment in person,” Mr Corrigan said.

Tameka-Lea King, an Allied Health Assistant at Hillston MPS, said the Virtual Hub is making a significant difference to the local community.

“The feedback we have received from people who have used our Virtual Hub has been very positive,” she said.

“It’s great for people in our community who are living in a rural area, as it has made it easier and more cost effective to access important health appointments without needing to drive hours for a quick consult.”

If the trial is successful, MLHD will consider rolling out Virtual Hubs to other facilities across the District.