Frequently asked questions
Is telehealth psychology covered by Medicare?
Yes, as long as you have a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) from a SwiftDoc GP. You can book an appointment with a SwiftDoc GP at Swiftdoc.com and be seen very quickly. Once you have a MHCP, you can have up to 20 psychology sessions under Medicare with Swift Psychology. You must have a Medicare number to access bulk billed psychology and receive a rebate. There is usually a gap to pay so the full cost of the consult is not fully rebated.
Is telehealth covered by insurance?
Many insurance companies now cover telehealth psychology services. Patients should check with their insurance provider to determine if telehealth psychology is covered.
What is telehealth psychology?
Telehealth psychology refers to the delivery of psychological services through video conferencing technology. This allows patients to receive care from a licensed psychologist without having to leave their homes. How does telehealth psychology work? Telehealth psychology involves a video conferencing session between the patient and the psychologist. The session is conducted through a secure and encrypted platform, which can be accessed through a computer, tablet, or smartphone. Is telehealth psychology confidential? Yes, telehealth psychology is confidential. The same laws and ethical standards that apply to in-person therapy also apply to telehealth psychology.
Which mental health conditions can be treated through telehealth psychology?
Telehealth psychology can be used to treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and more.
How effective is telehealth psychology?
Research has shown that telehealth psychology is just as effective as in-person therapy for the treatment of mental health conditions.
Do I need special equipment to participate in telehealth psychology?
No, you do not need special equipment to participate in telehealth psychology. You will need a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and internet access.
How do I schedule a telehealth psychology appointment?
You can schedule a telehealth psychology appointment by clicking the book appointment button above.
What should I expect during a telehealth psychology session?
During a telehealth psychology session, you will have a live video or phone chat or with your psychologist. The psychologist will ask you questions about your symptoms and experiences and will work with you to develop a plan for treatment.
Can I have telehealth psychology sessions from anywhere?
Yes, you can have telehealth psychology sessions from anywhere as long as you have a computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet access.
How often will I have telehealth psychology sessions?
The frequency of telehealth psychology sessions will depend on the needs of the patient and the recommendations of the psychologist. Usually, it would be once a week.
How long do telehealth psychology sessions last?
Telehealth psychology sessions typically last between 45 and 60 minutes.
Will I need to fill out any forms before my telehealth psychology session?
No but to book we obviously need your name, email, phone number, Medicare number etc. which you will type in when you make a booking. You can read our privacy policy on this website.
Will my psychologist be able to diagnose me through telehealth psychology?
Yes, your psychologist will be able to diagnose you through telehealth psychology. They will use the same diagnostic tools and procedures that they would use in an in-person session.
How will my psychologist know if telehealth psychology is working for me?
Your psychologist will assess your progress through regular check-ins andassessments. If they determine that telehealth psychology is not working for you, they may recommend other treatments.
Can I have telehealth psychology with the same psychologist every time.
Yes
How will I pay for my telehealth psychology sessions?
You will be able to pay for your telehealth psychology sessions at the time of booking. You can claim a Medicare rebate afterwards if you have a Medicare number and a Mental Health Care Plan from a SwiftDoc GP (or any GP).
What happens if I need to cancel my telehealth psychology appointment?
If you need to cancel your telehealth psychology appointment, you should contact us as soon as possible on 1800794383. There is a policy for cancellations or rescheduling appointments which you can read in the Terms and Conditions of Service. If you cancel or reschedule within 24 hours of your appointment, the cost of the original appointment will not be refunded.
Is telehealth psychology appropriate for children and adolescents?
Yes, telehealth psychology can be appropriate for children and adolescents. Your psychologist will determine the best course of action for each individual case. We can conduct appointments with several people on the call at the same time.
Is telehealth psychology appropriate for older adults?
Yes, telehealth psychology can be appropriate for older adults. Older adults may find telehealth psychology especially convenient, as they can receive care from the comfort of their own homes. We can conduct appointments with several people on the call at the same time.
What about if I require medication?
If medication is required, the psychologist can refer you to one of the SwiftDoc doctors for evaluation and prescriptions. Prescriptions are sent by SMS’d to any phone or email address.
Can telehealth psychologists help with WorkCover injuries?
Yes, telehealth psychologists can help with WorkCover injuries. If you have sustained a work-related injury (e.g. stress, bullying, harassment at work) and are seeking psychological support, a telehealth psychologist can provide evidence-based treatment, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, to assist with managing symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and stress. Your psychologist may also collaborate with your WorkCover case manager to provide updates on your progress and support your return to work. We can also support people in the workplace who have non-work related psychological or medical illness and need support.
Can telehealth psychologists prescribe medications?
Telehealth psychologists cannot prescribe medications. If medication is required, the psychologist will refer you to one of the SwiftDoc doctors for evaluation and prescription. The psychologist will collaborate with the doctor to ensure that you receive comprehensive and integrated care.
Can telehealth psychologists provide medical certificates for time off work?
If a medical certificate is required, the psychologist will ask you to book one of our friendly SwiftDoc GPs at Swiftdoc.com. The doctor can provide a medical certificate if you need time off work.