Missed the waiting room: Why online doctor appointments are surging post-pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic forced many changes on everyday life, but one of the most enduring transformations has been in how Australians access healthcare. With platforms such as Hola Health leading the charge, a telehealth appointment has shifted from an emergency measure to an everyday convenience-and Aussies aren't turning back. The pandemic ushered in a new era of digital health, and now that people have experienced the ease and flexibility of virtual consultations, demand continues to grow. Here's how the post-pandemic world has reshaped healthcare habits across Australia.

Initially, online doctor services were rolled out at speed during lockdowns to maintain access to essential care. But the rapid uptake surprised even the experts. A 2023 report from The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) revealed that over 45% of medical appointments in the past year were conducted online or via phone-up from less than 5% pre-pandemic. Patients now see virtual care not just as a backup, but as a first choice for a range of health issues.

The ability to book an online doctors appointment at short notice has transformed the way people manage their health. Whether it's a child's sudden fever at 9pm or a script renewal during a lunch break, online consultations are available when people need them most. This shift is saving families hours of travel and wait time. According to Healthdirect Australia, same-day telehealth bookings are now more common than in-clinic ones, especially among parents, full-time workers, and carers.

Australians living in regional and rural areas have long struggled with limited access to GPs. Online services are closing that gap. By removing geographic barriers, patients from anywhere in the country can connect with a qualified doctor quickly. The National Rural Health Alliance recently highlighted that digital appointments have increased primary care access in remote communities by over 30%, giving thousands the medical attention they might otherwise miss.

Isolation and stress during the pandemic heightened mental health concerns, and digital consultations emerged as a lifeline. With easier access and less stigma, more Australians-especially young people-began turning to online GPs and therapists. Services such as Hola Health now offer mental health plans, consultations, and referrals entirely online.

The pandemic not only introduced new technologies it also permanently changed what patients expect from their healthcare providers. Flexibility, speed, and convenience are no longer bonuses-they're the baseline. Australians are now choosing on-demand doctor consultations for everything from chronic disease management to preventive care. Digital-first platforms are setting new benchmarks for what it means to be patient-centric.

The rise of online doctors appointments is more than just a pandemic side-effect-it's a healthcare evolution. With platforms such as Hola Health delivering fast, secure, and accessible care to millions, Australia's medical system has embraced a new era. And as patients continue to prioritize convenience and accessibility, it's clear that the virtual waiting room is here to stay.

This information is of a general nature only and should not be regarded as specific to any particular situation. Readers are encouraged to speak with their GP and seek appropriate medical advice based on their personal circumstances. This is content submitted by a third party. It does not necessarily represent the views of the publisher of this website.