Woolworths-owned HealthyLife launches telehealth service

Patients will be able to get e-scripts, referrals, medical certificates as well as standard consultations when they use the service.

One supermarket giant is working to make visiting the doctor easier and cheaper as the cost of living soars.

Woolworths-owned HealthyLife, a digital health business, has launched telehealth consultations using a network of virtual GPs, dietitians, nutritionists and in-house naturopaths.

Patients will be able to get e-scripts, referrals, medical certificates and consultations using the service.

These services are provided for a one-off fee beginning at $25, with a 30-minute consultation with a dietitian or nutritionist costing $115.

Woolworths-owned HealthyLife launches telehealth

Patients will be able to get e-scripts, referrals, medical certificates and consultations.

The program will work with Global Health to provide a third-party platform so that customers can have access to healthcare.

Currently, Australia is facing a GP shortage with long wait times for appointments.

But, HealthyLife is offering same day appointments if the patient books before 4pm AEST.

Sarah Gray, general manager health and nutrition said: “There are many reasons why patients may need to speak with a real GP via phone or video call.

“For example when they are not physically able to leave the house, for children’s health advice, or simply because they cannot access their regular doctor.

“In addition to providing fast access to trusted health advice, telehealth patients can request an e-script from the GP, have the script fulfilled and delivered to their door through our partner SuperPharmacy, via the HealthyLife platform – all from the comfort of their own home.

“We also know that there’s a growing demand for holistic healthcare advice for conditions including weight management, gut health conditions and chronic pain.

HealthyLife is owned by Woolworths. Picture: Gaye Gerard/NCA NewsWire

“That’s why we are providing virtual and cost effective consultations with dietitians and nutritionists whose services are not always as accessible, particularly for those living in rural areas or facing budget pressures.”

Meanwhile, Nicole Dynan, the founder and director of The Gut Health Dietitian, said her work was pleased to partner with the service in the hopes of bridging the gap who have previously been unable to access the service.

“Our practitioners can provide practical advice and guidance on health conditions like gut issues, food intolerances, medical conditions, weight management and general healthy eating, helping all Australians live a healthy life,” she said.

SuperPharmacy and Woolworths launched into a joint venture partnership in 2021, with the partnership allowing for Woolworths’ HealthyLife access to key technology and warehouse assets.

Coles and Woolworths have been attempting to break into the pharmacy business for decades, but it has repeatedly been blocked by the Pharmacy Guild.

A spokesperson from the Pharmacy Guild told The Daily Telegraph: “We have contacted the pharmacy authorities in all jurisdictions across Australia to ensure this partnership meets all the state and territory-based registration requirements that all pharmacies must comply with.”