Telehealth STI testing gives you direct access to a Specialist GP with an interest in sexual health — by phone, from anywhere in Australia. Unlike the $39 online STI test (which sends a pathology referral for routine asymptomatic screening with no doctor call), telehealth STI testing is for people who want tailored testing advice, have symptoms, or need tests beyond the standard five-infection screen.
Available anywhere in Australia through Clinic365 — available anywhere in Australia via telehealth. Same-day consultations usually available. Pathology referrals sent by SMS. No in-person visit needed.
During your consultation, your Specialist GP will take a detailed sexual and medical history, discuss any symptoms or concerns, and recommend the most appropriate tests for your situation. Referrals are sent to your phone by SMS immediately after the call — ready to take to any pathology collection centre Australia-wide.
The telehealth option allows your GP to order tests beyond the standard five-infection screen ($39), including: herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2), Mycoplasma genitalium, trichomoniasis, hepatitis C, HPV testing, and targeted swabs for specific symptoms or exposure sites. Your GP tailors the test list to your individual risk profile and sexual practices — rather than a one-size-fits-all panel.
Telehealth STI testing is also the right option if you have symptoms (discharge, burning, bumps, pain, itching), a recent exposure or partner notification, need window-period advice, want to discuss contact tracing, or simply prefer to speak with a Specialist GP before testing. Your GP can also arrange emergency PEP (must start within 72 hours of exposure) through the same consultation.
Most results are sent by SMS within 24 hours of your pathology visit. If any results are positive, your Specialist GP will contact you by phone to explain what the results mean and arrange treatment — most infections can be fully managed by telehealth without an in-person visit. Treatment is sent electronically to any pharmacy you nominate.
All telehealth consultations are conducted by AHPRA-registered Specialist GPs with postgraduate training in sexual health medicine. Consultations are completely confidential — your regular GP is not notified. The $59 fee covers the consultation, pathology referrals, and any follow-up phone call for positive results. Bulk-billed pathology through Medicare means no additional cost for the tests themselves.
Telehealth is particularly effective for sexual health consultations because most conditions can be accurately assessed from a clinical history and targeted testing alone — physical examination is rarely needed. You receive the same expert care from the comfort and privacy of your own home, without taking time off work or sitting in a waiting room.