The Federal Government in conjunction with NSW Health is set to trial remote health services through the National Broadband Network (NBN) in Armidale and Kiama.
A select pool of older Australians with chronic conditions living in the two regions will have access to trial. They will receive services such as home telehealth vital stats monitoring and home video consultation with local health professionals.
The Federal Government provides funding of up to $4 million.
Armidale and Kiama are among the first mainland cities selected to receive NBN connectivity.
“By delivering health care services to the home, older Australians with chronic conditions will be better able to manage their health through ongoing monitoring and care in collaboration with their primary health providers,” Communications Minister, Senator Stephen Conroy, said.
A comprehensive evaluation of the impacts and outcomes of the trials will be undertaken, he said.
The Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, pledged $250 million on Medicare rebates for online consultations for rural, remote and outer metropolitan areas by July next year as part of her 2010 election promise.
She also announced $50 million for a GP afterhours helpline to provide medical advice through he NBN.
