Patient engagement platform HotDoc has released new functionality that allows practices to screen patients for COVID-19 symptoms and to book a telehealth appointment, following the announcement that an MBS item will be made available to GPs, nurses and mental health practitioners from Friday to consult with patients at home by phone or video.

And online appointment booking service HealthEngine also plans to release new functionality by the end of the week, including a telehealth solution at no or low cost for practices for use with or without the MBS rebate and a triage survey allowing patients to self-assess for COVID-19 symptoms.