Talking HealthTech: 388 – The way of the future for timely access to mental health support. Dr Vishnu Gopalan, Hola Health

In this episode of Talking Health Tech, host Sophie Turner chats with Dr Vishnu Gopalan, a general practitioner and the founder of Hola Health, a telehealth platform aiming to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for all individuals. Driven by the desire to alleviate the challenges patients face in accessing healthcare, Hola Health provides an on-demand telehealth service, delivering consultations within a ten-minute timeframe, Australia wide. In this episode we explore the need for accessible mental health services, the importance of timely care, and the impact of Hola Health on healthcare delivery.

Addressing the Changing Landscape of General Practice

With over 14 years of experience as a general practitioner, Dr Gopalan recognised the evolving landscape of healthcare, where accessing quality care had become a challenge even in urban areas. To bridge this gap, Hola Health initially started as a medicine delivery company before expanding into a telehealth platform. By embracing the Uber-style concept, Hola Health allows patients to connect with a doctor without the need for booking appointments, ensuring swift and convenient access to medical consultations. In addition to telehealth services, Hola Health goes the extra mile by assisting patients with medicine delivery, completing the end-to-end healthcare solution.

Delivering Healthcare in Record Time

The backbone of Hola Health’s success lies in its ability to connect patients with GPs within a remarkable 15-minute timeframe. Dr Gopalan credits this accomplishment to the collaboration with Spectrum Health, an organisation that boasts 45 clinics and 250 GPs across Western Australia. By utilising the free time of GPs, such as lunch breaks or cancelled appointments, Hola Health ensures a quick response to patient demands. This seamless integration into doctors’ routines not only benefits patients but also provides GPs with a refreshing change of pace from the often monotonous nature of general practice. The ability to promptly address acute healthcare needs allows doctors to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in real need of immediate care.

Pioneering Accessibility in Mental Health Services

Recognising the limitations and delays in accessing mental health services, Hola Health extends its platform to include timely and accessible mental health consultations. Dr Gopalan explains the challenges patients face when seeking mental health treatment plans, including denial and the reluctance to accept their conditions. Traditional methods often involve waiting an extended period to see a GP and then navigating additional steps to receive appropriate care. By offering online mental health consultations, Hola Health removes the barriers that hinder patients from seeking immediate help. With a focus on connecting patients with GPs and arranging appointments with psychologists as needed, Hola Health streamlines the process, effectively supporting patients in their mental health journey.

Meeting the Demand for Mental Health Services

Since the recent launch of their mental health services, Hola Health has witnessed a strong demand for immediate access to mental health consultations. The initial ten appointments per week were booked rapidly, highlighting the pressing need for mental health support nationwide. This accessible platform is advantageous, particularly for busy individuals, remote communities, and those who may hesitate to seek mental health services through traditional channels.

Overcoming Challenges in Mental Healthcare Delivery

While Dr Gopalan acknowledges that there are minimal challenges in accessing mental health services, the primary hurdle lies in the patient’s inertia. Denial and the stigma surrounding mental health often delay individuals from taking the next step towards seeking help. Additionally, lengthy wait times to see GPs, especially in rural communities, pose a significant barrier to prompt mental health care. Hola Health aims to address these issues by providing readily available mental health consultations, ensuring patients can obtain the support they need when they decide to seek help.

Accessible and Affordable

Hola Health’s commitment to revolutionising accessibility and affordability in healthcare is evident in their innovative telehealth platform and integrated mental health services. By leveraging technology and streamlining the process, Hola Health is paving the way for patients to access quality care promptly. The dedication to meeting the increasing demand for mental health services highlights their commitment to improving mental healthcare delivery. As Hola Health continues to expand, they aim to provide hundreds of appointments per week for mental health consultations, catering to the needs of diverse individuals across Australia. With their patient-centric approach, Hola Health is transforming the way healthcare is delivered, making it accessible to all, regardless of location or circumstances.

_{Source talkinghealthtech.com}