As national discussion continues about access to end-of-life care, Palliative Care Australia has reaffirmed the important role telemedicine already plays in supporting equitable access to high-quality palliative care. 

Palliative Care Australia Chair Dr Peter Allcroft said every Australian should have access to high-quality palliative care at the end of life, regardless of where they live.  

"Nobody in their last months and weeks of life should have to worry about dying in ways that don’t reflect their wishes and values, with pain and discomfort or in a hospital or care environment where they don’t want to be,” he said. 

“We know that this can be easier in bigger cities, where there is a greater concentration of specialist services. 

“But for those in regional and remote areas, telemedicine can play a vital role; not only supporting patients and their families, but by providing specialist support to local healthcare professionals as well.  

“We want to ensure that every Australian can die well. This means having symptoms managed, receiving clear information and support from trusted health professionals and, wherever possible, being cared for close to or at home, surrounded by loved ones and connected to community. 

“When it is clinically appropriate, supported by reliable technology and integrated with local health services, telemedicine can enable safe, effective and efficient care. It connects people and the family and friends supporting them with palliative care expertise, while giving rural and remote health professionals timely access to specialist advice. 

“Telemedicine does not replace local, face-to-face care. It strengthens that care by bringing specialist expertise into the person’s home and community, supporting local teams and reducing some of the barriers created by distance. 

"Technology is only one part of the solution. Telemedicine works best when it is backed by a skilled local workforce, strong partnerships between specialist and community providers, and investment in palliative care services that ensure people can receive the right care in the right place."