Quicker appointment with Telehealth

A follow up consultation by telehealth meant Southland Hospital patient Rachel Rose from Arrowtown was seen much earlier by her consultant than an in–person appointment.

Dr Michelle Downie Southland Hospital General Physician and Endocrinologist says telehealth enabled her to discuss the results of a biopsy with Rachel in a much shorter time frame. “This saved Rachel another trip back down to Invercargill, and I was also able refer her straight away on to the surgical team for follow up without any unnecessary delay.”

Rachel is delighted with the timeliness of the care she’s received. She says the process has been so much easier and it’s great she was given the choice to have a telehealth appointment.

“I’ve not had to take a day off work or travel five hours to Invercargill and back, and I’ve not had to worry about my two children. I can’t recommend it enough – it’s convenient, it saves time and money, and for older people it’s safer especially as they don’t have to drive in the winter.”