Suitable space

Virtual consultations should be conducted where all participants can be in a private space, with minimal background noise or disturbances.

Consider the following when creating an ideal space for your virtual consultation:

  • The space must be a suitable size for the number of participants attending. Ideally the space will be private with minimal foot traffic.
  • Ensure the space is accessible for all participants attending. For example, include a hearing induction loop, wheelchair and walker ramp, and be close to parking.
  • Make good use of natural light and consider the layout of the room, including the placement of furniture and things that may be visible in your background.
  • Ensure the technology and equipment you need it is available in the space, and working effectively. Test it out before the consultation.
  • Ensure the materials on the wall and floor support sound proofing, and that colours are appropriate for your consumer group.

If a private space is unavailable, you must consider the content of the consultation to determine if it is safe and appropriate to proceed with a virtual consultation. For example, it may be appropriate for a routine check-up, but may be inappropriate for an initial consultation with a domestic violence victim.

If you are unsure about the best space to use, your virtual care manager or lead can help advise on how to find a suitable space.

Open plan spaces

Before delivering clinical care in an open plan space, consider the following.

  • Ensure it is clinically appropriate for the type of consultation.
  • Use a quiet and less trafficked area of the office.
  • Ensure no confidential or sensitive information is visible.
  • Always wear a headset − ideally one that minimises background noise.
  • If practical, consider using a room divider or banner to block out the background. This should be wide enough to cover the camera angle and have minimal imagery to reduce distractions. (Be aware of trip hazards if using a banner or room divider.)
  • Consider the use of acoustic or roof-mounted partitions.
  • Inform participants that they are in an open space and explain the steps you have taken to maintain their privacy. Give participants the option to continue or reschedule.

Examples of suitable environments

Any of these spaces could be suitable if key considerations are adopted.

ClinicalNon-clinical

Hospital setting

  • Private office space
  • Virtual care centre
  • Resuscitation bay
  • Mental health safe assessment room
  • Adult and neonatal intensive care unit
  • Inpatient wards/bedrooms
  • Operating theatres
  • Outpatient clinics
  • Imaging (x-ray, ultrasound)
  • Physiotherapy group room/gym
  • Monitoring stations
  • Nurses station

First response

  • Call centre/control centre
  • Ambulance
  • Retrieval vehicles (helicopters/fixed wing aircrafts)

Community

  • Local community health facility
  • Residential aged care facility
  • Aboriginal medical service
  • Affiliated health service
  • Private provider
  • GP clinic
  • Private residence
  • Workplace
  • Community identified space (library etc)
  • Courtroom
  • Gym
  • Accident site
  • Office space
  • Meeting rooms/boardrooms
  • Simulation laboratory
  • Tutorial room
  • Huddle room
  • Auditorium
  • Lecture theatre
 
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