GPs say their Medicare revenue is tumbling as patients steer clear of face-to-face consults due to fears about COVID-19.

Australian Doctor has heard grim predictions about practices being forced to close or go deep into debt, even as staff are busier than ever, organising telehealth consultations.

Dr Colin Metz says the GP clinic he owns in Sydney has begun losing money for the first time in more than three decades, after billings from attendances plunged 64% in a week.

The shortfall in Medicare cash generated by face-to-face consults is partly offset by telehealth, following the introduction of new telehealth rebates for vulnerable patients.