The goal of the program is to develop nationally consistent training on how to provide telehealth in Residential Aged Care Homes (RACHs) with the needs and wellbeing of residents at the heart of the approach. The training will include interactive, microlearning modules across a range of topics for both RACH staff, visiting clinicians, and remote-end clinicians. The training is designed to build confidence in the workforce on how to deliver telehealth in a residential aged care setting, using proven teaching techniques.

Telehealth reduces the need for unnecessary transfers to clinical services for residents who are often extremely unwell and vulnerable. It benefits clinicians by enabling consultations in the resident’s usual environment, which provides clearer insight into their health condition and needs. It ensures a collaborative approach to care, enabling RACH nursing staff to be present, if appropriate, for the consultation.

Western Victoria PHN is leading the project on behalf of South Eastern Melbourne, Murray, Eastern Melbourne, North Western Melbourne, Gippsland, Tasmania, Coordinare (NSW), Western NSW, Murrumbidgee, Healthy North Coast (NSW), Gold Coast, Brisbane North, Northern Queensland, and Darling Downs West Moreton Primary Health Networks.

The RACH Telehealth Training Program will be rolled out from July 2024.