Getting the Most Out of Your Telemedicine Consultation
Posted on March 15
What is Telemedicine, and how does it work? Telemedicine refers to the use of digital information and communication technology, such as computers and mobile devices, to access and manage health care services from a distance. These could be technologies that you use at home or that your doctor employs to improve or supplement healthcare services. Ready to see a doctor on your next Telemedicine appointment? Here are a few reminders to take note of for a successful e-consultation!
Be on time
Log in at the exact time of your call for planned appointments. Patients that arrive late may be labeled as no-shows.
Check your internet connection
Ensure that there are no network interruptions on the day of your appointment for the best outcomes.
Have a quiet place for a visit
When you’re not in the same room as your doctor, clear communication is crucial. To ensure that you can both hear each other, avoid noisy environments.
Avoid multiple bookings
Our doctors are always available to assist you. Please schedule one visit per doctor for the same medical problem at a time.
Avoid last-minute cancellations
Patients and doctors alike dislike last-minute cancellations. If you need to reschedule, please do so at least 4 hours ahead of time to allow other patients to come in.
Make a list of particular questions or concerns
Before your Telemedicine visit, grab a pen and paper and jot down any questions or concerns you have. It’s also a good idea to take notes throughout your appointment to help you recall important topics raised by your doctor.
Keep a list of your medications in handy
Prepare a list of your medications, as well as the amounts and frequency with which you take them. Even if you just take them as needed, your over-the-counter drugs and vitamins should be included on this list. Whether your prescriptions have changed recently, tell your doctor about it, especially if you need refills.
If possible, know your vital signs
If possible, make a note of your vital signs ahead of time (ideally within the previous 24 hours). Blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and weight are all vital indicators that can be recorded with just a home blood pressure machine, a thermometer, and a scale.
Ask questions and repeat instructions
This is your time with your doctor; make the most of it by asking questions and repeating any directions given to you during your Telemedicine consultation. This ensures that you have accurately heard everything.
Make a plan for how you'll follow up.
Make preparations for how you will follow up before you end your conversation or virtual visit. When should you contact them again? What is your contact information, as well as the date and time of your next scheduled appointment? What signs and symptoms should you be on the lookout for?
In conclusion, Telemedicine is a new approach of providing care that is both required and beneficial in the new normal. It does bring health-care benefits, such as cost savings, convenience, and the capacity to provide care to persons with mobility issues or those living in remote areas without access to a local doctor or clinic.