Telehealth in general practice

General Practice is a highly computerised part of the health system and the place where most Australians receive health care. This positions it well to lead the adoption of telehealth. On the other hand, by supporting computerisation in general practice to a greater extent than in other health sectors, we may have created an island of computerisation in a sea of paper. Because this island is essentially a collection of thousands of independent small businesses, the adoption of new systems is especially challenging. Each general practice can choose to participate or to not. This article discusses the adoption of technology in the sector so far, and examines what will be required to ensure that the current investment in telehealth succeeds.