Digital Services Line

A common form of connectivity currently used in private health services and amongst Australian households.

The asymmetrical digital services line (ADSL) is more common because the download speed is normally faster than the upload speed. The space available on a DSL is shared amongst everyone on the network, so when there are busy times with lots of people using the internet, you may find that the speeds will be lower than expected.

Recommendations for DSL:

If you can, always obtain the fastest speed available from your telecommunications provider. By contacting your provider, you can find out your advertised speed and find out what the cost might be to change your plan to one with a faster speed.

Remember- a minimum advertised upload/download speed of 512 kilobits per second in each direction is recommended.

Internet usage (e.g. email traffic/other clinicians) within the clinic using one DSL will have an impact on the quality of your internet speed- so minimise who is using the internet whenever you are conducting video consultations.

Patient considerations for DSL:

You should not ask a patient to upgrade their internet connection/plan, as this will likely impose an extra cost on the patient. Instead, try the following to improve the quality of the call with a patient who has a DSL connection:

• Ask the patient to reduce internet demand in their house at the time of the video consultation eg ask other household members to refrain from using the internet
• Ensure that no household members are live-streaming television or movies during the time of your call (e.g. Netflix, Stan, SBS on Demand) on the same internet
• Consider the time of day that you make your video consultation appointment with your patient and try and avoid times when there is a high demand for internet from telecommunication providers
• “Internet Rush Hour” is between 7 to 11 pm
• Quieter internet times may be mornings or early afternoon hours if possible