Accessing Telehealth From Anywhere
Whether you live in a coastal town, a capital city, on a farm or somewhere in between, finding therapy support should not feel complicated. South Coast Therapy & Support Group provides telehealth Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology to people across Australia. This guide explains how the process works, step by step.
Step 1: Decide Whether Telehealth Could Suit You
Telehealth may be worth considering if:
• You live in a regional, rural or remote area, or local services have waitlists
• Travel to appointments is difficult because of work, school, health or transport
• Your goals relate to routines and activities that happen at home
• Parents, carers or support people in different locations would like to be involved
If you are unsure, that is okay. Our team can talk through your situation and explain what telehealth can and cannot offer for your goals.
Step 2: Make a Referral
You do not always need a doctor's referral to access occupational therapy or speech pathology. You can:
• Self-refer through our online referral portal
• Ask your Support Coordinator, Plan Manager or Local Area Coordinator to refer
• Be referred by your GP, Paediatrician, school, early childhood service or another health professional
Visit sctherapysupport.au/make-a-referral to get started, or call (02) 4421 6013.
Step 3: Talk About Funding
Funding options differ depending on your circumstances. Common pathways may include:
• NDIS: Participants may be able to use their capacity building funding for telehealth therapy where it aligns with their plan goals. Your Plan Manager or Support Coordinator can help confirm what applies to you.
• Medicare: Some people may be eligible for Medicare rebates for a limited number of allied health sessions through a GP. Speak with your GP about eligibility, including for telehealth.
• Private health insurance: Some extras policies include telehealth allied health services. Check directly with your insurer.
• Private or self-funded: Our team can provide information about fees before you start.
Funding rules can change, so we always recommend confirming details with your provider, plan manager or GP.
Step 4: Prepare for Your First Session
Before your first appointment, we will send a secure video link and simple instructions. You will need a device with a camera, microphone and a reliable internet connection. A laptop or tablet is ideal, and a quiet space helps sessions run smoothly.
Your first session usually focuses on getting to know you, understanding your goals and planning the next steps together.
Step 5: Stay Connected
Collaboration is one of our core values, and telehealth therapy is no exception. Your therapist can share strategies, resources and home program ideas, and with your consent, communicate with your wider support team such as teachers, Support Coordinators or other health professionals.
A Note on Time Zones
Because we support clients across Australia, appointment times are confirmed in your local time. Daylight saving differs between states and territories, so our team will always double check your time zone when booking.
About Us
South Coast Therapy & Support Group is an award-winning regional allied health organisation, recognised as Business of the Year, Employer of Choice, for Excellence in Innovation and as one of the Top 5 Best Places to Work in Australasia. Our values of Compassion, Innovation, Collaboration, Growth and Community guide everything we do, and our team brings the same values and standards to telehealth as to our local services. As our Community value puts it, we are proudly serving the Shoalhaven, Illawarra and Australia through Telehealth.
Local Options Remain Available
If you live in the Shoalhaven or Illawarra, nothing changes about your local options. You can choose telehealth, in-person sessions at our Nowra clinic, community-based sessions at home, school or in the community, or a combination, depending on your goals and what works for your family.
Ready to Get Started?
Make a referral at sctherapysupport.au/make-a-referral or call our friendly team on (02) 4421 6013.
Taking the time, making a difference.
This content provides general information only and does not replace individualised advice from a qualified health professional. Funding information is general and subject to change. Telehealth may not be suitable for everyone. Please contact our team to discuss whether it suits your needs.
