Can I Transfer or Switch Between Telehealth Clinics?
Yes, you can switch between telehealth clinics at any time. Your health information belongs to you, and the process is straightforward.
The short answer is yes. You can switch between telehealth clinics, or between a telehealth clinic and another provider, at any time. This is your choice, and there is no penalty or complication involved. Your health information belongs to you, and you control where it goes.
Your health records belong to you
When you consult with a telehealth doctor, your consultation notes and any records created are yours. You are entitled to request copies of your medical records at any time, and to provide those records to any other healthcare provider you choose. This is not a favour — it is your legal right under Australian privacy law.
How to transfer your care
If you decide to switch to another clinic or provider, the process is simple. You can contact your new provider and let them know you want to transfer your care. Your new provider can request your records directly from your previous clinic, or you can request your records yourself and provide them to your new provider. There are no hoops, no waiting periods, and no reason for any delay.
Why people transfer care
People move between providers for all sorts of practical reasons — a change in their circumstances, a preference for a different clinic's hours or approach, or simply trying a different service. None of these require explanation or justification. Your healthcare is yours to direct.
Frequently asked questions
Can I transfer from another telehealth clinic to Golden Ratio?
Yes. You can switch to us at any time. When you contact us to book, you can request that we obtain your previous medical records from your earlier provider, or you can request them yourself and provide them to us. We will be transparent about what we can do with that information.
What happens to my medical records when I switch clinics?
Your records remain your property. If you move to another clinic, you can request copies from your previous provider, and you can share those with your new provider. The previous clinic will keep your records on file — that is a requirement of medical record-keeping law — but your new provider can access them only if you authorise the transfer.
Is there a contract or lock-in period?
No. Telehealth consultations at Golden Ratio are on a per-appointment basis. You are not locked into an ongoing relationship, and you can choose to see a different provider whenever you want. There is no cancellation process or notice period required.
Can Golden Ratio contact my previous provider on my behalf?
Yes, if you ask us to. When you book, you can authorise us to request your records directly from your previous clinic. This saves you a step. We will only do this with your explicit consent.
References
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Preparing For Your First Appointment
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Editorial note: Journal is the Golden Ratio Clinics editorial section. Articles are general health-service writing and do not constitute medical advice. All clinical decisions are made by your doctor during a consultation.
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