Asynchronous consultation

An asynchronous consultation is communication in which a patient and clinician do not interact at the same time, such as an exchange of forms or messages. It differs from a live phone or video consultation. In Australia, using a questionnaire alone to provide clinical care raises important professional standards and safety considerations.

Is an online intake form a consultation?

A form can help collect symptoms, history and the reason for an appointment. That information can support a doctor, but it does not automatically replace a clinical consultation. The doctor remains responsible for assessing the information, asking necessary questions and deciding what care is appropriate.

The Medical Board of Australia's telehealth guidance says questionnaire-based care without a real-time patient–doctor consultation is not good practice in the circumstances described by its guidance. A website's speed or automated interface does not change the clinician's responsibilities.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see medicalboard.gov.au: Revised telehealth guidelines now in effect - Medical Board of Australia.

What should I expect as a patient?

Check whether the service includes a live conversation, who reviews your information and how you can ask questions. Ask what happens if the doctor needs an examination or additional information. A prescription, certificate or referral should depend on clinical assessment rather than simply completing a payment.

Give accurate details, including important symptoms and current treatment. Do not select an answer simply because it seems more likely to produce the requested document. If your condition changes after submitting a form, tell the service through its appropriate contact channel.

Is messaging suitable for urgent symptoms?

No asynchronous channel should be assumed to provide immediate monitoring. Response times and service arrangements vary. Chest pain, serious breathing difficulty, collapse or other emergency symptoms require 000 or urgent in-person care.

For a routine issue, read the service's explanation of consultation format and follow-up. Doccio's online doctor information is the relevant starting point for its current process. A doctor decides whether remote care is suitable and whether further assessment is needed.

Where to go next

Read online doctor consultations to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.