This rural Victorian was set for a 'debilitating' stroke until a timely telehealth appointment saved him

Mr Harlem says needing specialist treatment was initially confronting given his distance from specialist health professionals. (Supplied)

East Gippsland resident David Harlem had hardly needed a sick day in his life until he experienced symptoms indicating he was at risk of having a stroke.

The 73-year-old saw his GP after suffering altitudinal visual field defects, causing periods of blindness in his right eye.