Recently, attending doctors appointments virtually are gaining popularity as medical treatment in the safety of our own homes is more convenient during these times, instead of having to go to a doctor’s office. Although quite convenient, online or over-the-phone visits will take some time to get used to.
Here are six ways to make the most out of your next telehealth appointment:
1] When to make the appointment.
Various common health concerns can be easily addressed via telemedicine. Mia Finkelston, M.D., medical director of Amwell, a company that provides tele heath technology and services said that “the most common are sore throats, upper respiratory infections, sinus infections, rashes, UTIs, and medicine refills. A lot of folks wonder if the care will be inferior to a brick-and-mortar appointment, but doctors are often more focused in this intimate setting, and take more time with patients, as they show off their ‘webside’ manner.”
2] Choose your mode of telecalls.
By using your mobile phone, ipad or laptop – you can download various apps for video chatting such as FaceTime, Zoom or Skype. Professor of dermatology at Harvard Medical School and President of the American Telemedicine Association (ATA), Joseph C. Kvedar, M.D., said the following:
“Ask your doctor if she has a portal. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens also have telehealth apps, and most healthcare plans let you access a clinician.”
If you don’t know what platform your provider uses, feel free to ask them because seeing to your comfort is paramount to these companies.
3] Set your background view.
Dr. Finkelston advises to be in an area that has access to natural light because your doctor may ask you to get close to a window in order to further inspect a rash or irritation. Don’t be surprised if your call will include a game of “charades”: “If you have a headache, for example, I may ask you to do ‘funny’ things, like smile so I can see your teeth, to rule out a neurological issue.” Using a bit of creativity, you can create a similar situation as if it was a real-life visit.
4] Work together with your doctor.
Your telehealth appointment will give your doctor the opportunity to provide a care plan, says Dr. Kvedar. “If you have high blood pressure, for instance, bring your cuff and a list of recent BPs.” Be sure to jot down questions before the call such as “If meditated or exercised, would that help? Always be open with your concerns,” says author of Telemedicine and Telehealth and faculty member at Georgetown University School of Medicine, Maggi Cary, M.D.
5] Be open and honest about your feelings.
Virtual appointments regarding mental health are also gaining popularity, says Dr. Cary, mentioning that these types of health visits are ideal for talk therapy. “Share everything you’re feeling — even little things like if you want to move farther away from the camera because you feel exposed.”
6] Plan ahead.
Dr. Finkelston urges patients to “end your appointment by asking about next steps, like, “Am I seeing you for a follow-up in X days?’” An estimate of 80% of patients receive treatment on their first televisit, while 20% are referred to other medical professionals. Bring clear on the plan ahead will boost your health and make sure that your relationship with your doctor gains more confidence – both in the real and virtual world.
Recommended For You
