Primary care consumers’ experiences and opinions of a telehealth consultation delivered via video during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This study examined consumers' experiences and opinions of a videoconference with a primary healthcare professional, and estimated the value of travel and time savings for consumers compared with face-to-face consultations. The online survey was conducted in Melbourne, Australia, between October 2020 and May 2021. The sample (n = 499) was highly educated (Bachelor degree or higher, 79%; 393/499), predominately female (70%; 347/499), mainly spoke English at home (78%; 390/499) and had a mean age of 31.8 years (s.d. 11.40). Reduced travel time (27%; 271/499) and avoiding exposure to COVID-19 (23%; 228/499) were the main reasons consumers chose a videoconference. Mental health and behavioural issues were the main reason for the consultation (38%; 241/499) and 69% (346/499) of consultations were with a general practitioner. Perceptions of the quality of care were uniformly high, with 84% (419/499) of respondents believing videoconference was equivalent to a face-to-face consultation. No association was found between reporting that telehealth was equivalent to a face-to-face consultation and education, language, health status, reason for consultation or provider type. The average time saved per consultation was 1 h and 39 min, and the average transport-related saving was A$14.29. High rates of acceptance and substantial cost savings observed in this study warrant further investigation to inform the longer-term role of videoconferences, and telehealth more broadly, in the Australian primary care system.

Results from a mobile outreach influenza vaccination program for vulnerable and high-risk populations in a high-income setting: lessons learned.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this pilot project was to assess the feasibility of an outreach mobile influenza vaccination program led by a large hospital network targeting high-risk and vulnerable populations in a high-income setting. METHODS: Key populations were identified and stakeholders with established access to these populations were engaged. A mobile, nurse-led immunisation service attended sites where these populations attend and offered influenza vaccine. Data was collected on risk factors for severe disease and past vaccination history. Vaccine type and date of administration were entered onto the Australian Immunisation Registry. RESULTS: Sixteen sites were visited, and 520 influenza vaccines were administered. Of those receiving the vaccine, 61% had received it previously, but only 39% in the past 12 months. A total of 232/520 participants (45%) self-reported a risk factor for severe disease. CONCLUSIONS: Appropriate identification of vulnerable populations, with good engagement of key stakeholders, can successfully deliver vaccines to sections of the population who may struggle to engage with healthcare services even when they are freely available. Implications for public health: Taking vaccines to vulnerable populations is well received and remains an important strategy to maximise uptake, even within high-income settings with universal access to healthcare.