In today’s digital age, a stable internet connection is no longer a luxury, but a necessity.
For healthcare professionals like Melbourne-based psychologist Leah Dodsworth, a reliable internet connection is a matter of life and death.
With the rise of telehealth consultations, a stable internet connection is crucial for providing essential services to patients.
When Internet Connectivity Fails, Lives Are At Risk
Leah’s story is a chilling example of how poor internet connectivity can have devastating consequences. As a psychologist specializing in trauma, Leah’s work is literally life-saving. She relies on online platforms to connect with patients, many of whom are at risk of suicide. But when her internet service provider, Optus, failed to deliver a stable connection, Leah’s work was severely disrupted.
The Struggle Is Real: Dealing with Poor Internet Connectivity
The trouble started in late October when Leah received warnings of “low bandwidth” and “unstable network connection” during video calls with patients. The connectivity issues persisted, freezing her screen up to six times an hour and forcing her to cancel a high number of patient sessions. The financial cost was staggering, with Leah losing a whopping $14,000 over five weeks.
The Ordeal of Dealing with Optus Customer Service
Leah’s attempts to resolve the issue with Optus were met with frustration and disappointment. Despite repeated calls and emails, she was only offered basic troubleshooting steps, which failed to resolve the issue. She even purchased a new laptop, hoping it would solve the problem, but to no avail. The communication with Optus was marred by missed calls, unfulfilled promises, and a general lack of concern for her situation.
A Cautionary Tale: The Importance of Reliable Internet Connectivity
Leah’s story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of reliable internet connectivity, especially for those who depend on it for their livelihood. With the rise of remote work and online services, a stable internet connection is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. As Leah so aptly put it, “Optus was literally endangering lives. Our second-largest telco did not care about these people.”
What’s Next?
Leah has since switched to a different provider and filed a complaint with the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman. Her story is a wake-up call for all of us who rely on internet services for our daily lives. Whether you’re a healthcare professional or a remote worker, a reliable internet connection is crucial for getting the job done. So, the next time you experience poor internet connectivity, remember Leah’s story and the devastating consequences it can have.