The coronavirus pandemic of late 2019 spurred massive changes worldwide, especially in the public health sector. Outpatient visits in many medical practices were canceled as a protective measure to ensure the safety of medical workers and the public (Prasad et al., 2020). In an effort to maintain care for chronic patients, as well as an increasing number of new ones, without sacrificing safety and maximizing social distancing, healthcare providers have turned to telemedicine visits for outpatient appointments (Prasad et al., 2020).
With its numerous benefits, including convenience, ease of access, and cost savings, telemedicine has become a mainstay, even as COVID-19 cases started to decline, and is becoming increasingly popular as people become more aware of its advantages.
Your first telehealth appointment can be nerve-racking. MyerleeMD is here with a guide to ensure your online appointment remains smooth and worry-free.
Takeaway:
Telemedicine provides ease of access, convenience, cost savings, and other benefits. Take steps to protect your privacy, ensure your setup is correct, and prepare essential data before you schedule a virtual consultation.
What to Expect From Your Telehealth Visit
The Telehealth.HHS.gov website, developed by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), offers up-to-date information for both patients and healthcare providers on federal initiatives aimed at advancing virtual care, also known as telehealth.
Here is a list of things you should do and expect on your telehealth visit, according to this reference:
- Ask for the cost of a visit. If you’re uninsured or unable to afford the visit, your healthcare provider may be able to connect you with local programs or community resources that can help.
- You should treat this virtual appointment as you would an in-person visit. That means being on time, dressing appropriately, and maintaining your focus during the consultation.
- If the appointment is for a minor, the minor must be present. Ask your doctor beforehand whether a parent or guardian should be present.
- Ask your healthcare provider how you will connect for the appointment, whether through a phone call, an email link, or a text message reminder.
- Do not hesitate to ask questions. It’s best to prepare a list of questions in advance.
- Ask your healthcare provider about the steps to take if you are unable to proceed with the appointment, and what to do if you or your provider experiences connection issues before or during the appointment.
How to Protect Your Privacy
A medical appointment can address sensitive topics, which is why securing your privacy is essential. Find a private location for your appointment, such as a private room in your home, your car, or your friend’s house.
If you have issues with personal safety, you should also discuss with your provider how to use other communication media, like email or text, before the appointment.
If an interpreter or caregiver accompanies you or the patient, discuss with your doctor the information you feel comfortable allowing the other person to hear. You should also determine if you need to fill out a release of information.
How to Set Up For Your Appointment
- Choose a well-lit area, but avoid sitting with your back to a window, as it can make it difficult for your healthcare provider to clearly see your face.
- Position the camera so it’s stable, at eye level, and captures your head and shoulders.
- If the appointment may require showing part of the body (such as for a skin concern), wear loose-fitting clothing.
- Find a quiet environment, and minimize background noise or distractions.
- Prepare your device by closing unnecessary applications to avoid internet connection problems or interruptions.
- For video visits, log in about 15 minutes early to allow time for any last-minute troubleshooting.
- Ask your provider what to expect when connecting early, such as entering a virtual waiting room or hearing hold music.
- Be sure to inform your provider ahead of time if you require accommodations such as a screen reader, closed captioning, or any other accessibility support.
What Medical Information to Prepare Beforehand
Your healthcare provider may request you or the patient to prepare the following information prior to your visit:
- A list of current medications, or the actual bottles
- Medical history
- Symptoms, questions, and concerns you want to discuss
- Pharmacy contact information
- Measurements like weight and temperature
- Vital signs like blood pressure and heart rate, if you are able to obtain them
- Flashlight or smartphone light, if your provider needs to look in your or the patient’s throat
- Photos and videos of the areas of concern, emailed to your provider or uploaded to a secure patient app before the appointment
Schedule a Telehealth Appointment Today with MyerleeMD
Ready to take control of your health from home? MyerleeMD Telehealth provides secure and convenient telehealth services. Our board-certified healthcare providers are here to guide your care, all without stepping into a clinic. We are proud to be HIPAA-compliant, so you can rest assured that your privacy and personal health information are always protected.
Book your virtual doctor appointment by calling MyerleeMD at 855-MYERLEE 6937533 or registering online and experience trusted, modern care through our telehealth treatments.
References
- Telehealth.HHS.gov. What Should I Know Before My Telehealth Visit?
- Telehealth.HHS.gov. Helping patients prepare for their telehealth appointment
- Prasad, A., Brewster, R., Rajasekaran, D., & Rajasekaran, K. (2020). Preparing for telemedicine visits: Guidelines and setup. Frontiers in Medicine, 7. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmed.2020.600794
- NephCure. Top Ten Tips for Your Telehealth Appointment