Establishing research priorities in emergency medicine telehealth

Abstract

Australia's healthcare system faces significant strain from rising ED presentations, driven by multiple factors. Telehealth has emerged as a potential solution to alleviate these pressures and, with the appropriate infrastructure, may facilitate access to specialist expertise in remote areas, advise community and ambulance services on patient distribution and reduce inpatient demand by expanding home care services. However, research gaps remain regarding its safety, efficacy, intent and cost-effectiveness. Robust evaluation of existing services is required to ensure this tool is utilised to its full potential.