The Professional Services Review has announced its first investigation into a doctor suspected of abusing the emergency coronavirus telehealth items.

The Medicare watchdog began auditing the GP late last month following a referral from the Federal Department of Health.

There are few details of the allegations, but Australian Doctor has been told the probe will examine whether face-to-face consultations should have been offered to patients who were seen remotely.

PSR director Professor Julie Quinlivan said there would be concerns about any phone or video consult claimed on Medicare where a physical examination was needed.