Telehealth & online therapy in the NDIS
Published at 11-11-2024 14:30:00
Telehealth & online therapy in the NDIS
What is telehealth?
Telehealth enables you to access consultations, assessments, and therapy sessions with healthcare professionals from your home. It’s a convenient option, particularly when attending in-person sessions isn’t practical. Also known as telepractice, online therapy, or remote therapy, telehealth ensures continuous care between you and your provider, whether for temporary or ongoing needs.
Many therapists and allied health providers in the NDIS offer telehealth services, making it possible to deliver most assessments and capacity-building therapies online.
How telehealth assessments work
During your first telehealth session with a healthcare professional, they will conduct an assessment to understand how your disability impacts your daily life. While in-person assessments are common, telehealth assessments are highly effective in most situations. The process typically involves detailed discussions with you, and possibly a family member or carer, as well as observing how you perform activities at home via video call.
Engaging in telehealth therapy sessions
Telehealth therapy sessions can be very effective when set up correctly. Depending on your goals, your therapist might send you resources before the session to help you prepare. You may need assistive technology or support from a carer to participate smoothly. Your therapist will guide you on how to engage effectively, taking your goals, support system, and limitations into account.
Allied health providers offering telehealth
Various therapists and services provide telehealth, including:
- Occupational therapists
- Physiotherapists
- Speech pathologists
- Psychologists
- Positive behaviour support specialists
- Exercise physiologists
- Dietitians
- School leaver employment support
- Employment-related assessment and counselling
Not all providers offer telehealth, so it’s important to confirm with your provider or look for this option when exploring services.
Benefits of telehealth over face-to-face therapy
Telehealth offers several advantages over in-person therapy, such as:
- Access to services nationwide: Telehealth connects you with providers across the country, overcoming geographic limitations.
- Reduced wait times: Telehealth providers often have more availability, helping you start therapy sooner.
- Maximised NDIS funding: Without travel fees, more funding can be directed to therapy sessions.
- Support for parents and carers: Carers can observe sessions and learn strategies to continue practicing at home.
- Lower risk of illness: Avoid exposure to illnesses by staying home.
- Greater flexibility: Schedule sessions at times that suit you, without the need for travel or waiting rooms.
How effective is telehealth?
Research shows that telehealth can be just as effective as in-person therapy for achieving goals. By avoiding long waitlists for local services, telehealth enables you to start working toward your NDIS goals right away.
What you need to get started with telehealth
To participate in telehealth, you’ll need:
- A computer, laptop, or tablet with a webcam, microphone, and speakers.
- A stable internet connection.
- A quiet, private space.
- Any relevant documents or reports to share with your therapist.
Preparing your equipment and environment ahead of time ensures a smooth experience.
Limitations of telehealth for certain services
While telehealth is effective for most services, some interventions require in-person appointments, such as:
- Complex assistive technology prescriptions (e.g., powered wheelchairs).
- Home modification assessments involving structural changes.
- Driving assessments.
In these cases, a mix of telehealth and in-person sessions may be needed to meet your goals.