Do you suffer from a chronic health condition? If you do, you are not alone.

In 2024, approximately 6 in10 Australians are estimated to live with a long term chronic health condition (AIHW). This significant figure highlights the growing burden of chronic illness in the country. Chronic diseases include conditions such as heart disease, diabetes,and mental health disorders, and their prevalence is increasing due to factors like an aging population and lifestyle choices​ (Australian Bureau of Statistics)​​.

This recent report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare highlights a growing burden of chronic disease in Australia.

Chronic illnesses are a major cause of ill health, disability, and premature death in Australia.

Common chronic and long-term illnesses include:

• Mental health, behavioral, or substance use disorders: including anxiety or depression.
• Musculoskeletal conditions: such as back pain, arthritis, or osteoporosis.
• Respiratory conditions: such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Cardiovascular conditions:  such as coronary heart disease or stroke.
• Cancers
• Hearing and vision disorders
• Neurological conditions:  such as dementia.
• Endocrine disorders: such as diabetes mellitus.
• Kidney disease
• Skin conditions: such as dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.

Chronic health conditions are not usually immediately life-threatening but tend to develop gradually, becoming more common with age. They often persist throughout a person’s life and require long-term chronic illness management. In Australia, First Nations people,people living in remote areas, and people living in lower socioeconomic areas, can experience a greater burden of disease.

While Australia’s life expectancy has increased over the decades, reflecting a global trend of improved health and longevity, the average amount of years we live burdened by disease and ill health is growing.

Prevention and Management of Chronic Disease in Australia: How Telehealth Can Help

For Australians living with chronic illnesses, the ability to access ongoing medical care online has become a game-changer. Online telehealth consultations can help in the early detection of complications, providing timely interventions and overall management of your health condition.

An experienced Private Medical online doctor will work with you to:

• Reduce your risk of developing a chronic condition.
• Ease symptoms if you already live with a chronic condition.
• Provide ongoing management and regular medical supervision, including monitoring     of symptoms, medication adjustment, and lifestyle advice.
• Improve your overall quality of life.

With chronic health conditions such as anxiety, back problems, depression, and asthma continuing to affect a significant portion of the Australian population, the role of online doctors is more crucial than ever. Telehealth provides access to continuous, comprehensive care – supporting people to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

If you or your loved one would like to speak to an experienced Private Medical Australian-registered online doctor regarding the prevention and management of any chronic or long-term health conditions, please book online now, or call our friendly customer service team on 135 001 to book a confidential telehealth appointment.

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