How to Prepare for a Telehealth Visit

Telehealth (also known as telemedicine) can help by making it easy to see your doctor for many types of appointments from the comfort of home.    

Connecting to your doctor virtually

The COVID-19 pandemic has seen a tremendous surge in doctors connecting with their patients virtually. Telehealth makes it possible to have appointments over the internet, by phone, email, or other digital media. Many providers offer telehealth services, so ask your doctor if he or she does and whether it’s appropriate for your health care needs.

A variety of services

Not only does telehealth keep you in touch with your doctor, but it also enables you to get virtual care for a wide variety of needs, in a safe and secure environment. Examples may include: wellness visits, prescriptions for medicine, eye exams, nutrition counseling, and much more. If you have a telehealth visit with a health care professional other than your PCP, be sure to share the results with him or her. Note: If you believe your health is in serious danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room or hospital.  

Staying healthy

It’s important to continue to maintain your health during the year with regular checkups, preventive health screenings, and treatment of any chronic conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and more. Talk to you doctor about which services can be handled with telehealth and if you are concerned about any necessary in-person appointments. 

How to prepare for a telehealth visit

If your visit will include video, charge your smartphone or device that has an internet connection and audio-video capabilities, like a tablet or computer. Then use these tips to help your appointment go smoothly:

• Bring the right information. Have all your medications in case they need to be reviewed. Have your Tufts Health Plan member ID card handy in case you need it. If you need to show your doctor skin lesions or rashes, ask your doctor about sending photos in advance of your appointment as photos are often clearer than video. Ask your provider ahead of time if you’ll need to be ready to discuss other information, such as home blood-pressure readings or glucometer results. If you have them, it can be helpful to have on hand a thermometer, flashlight, blood pressure cuff, and oxygen sensing device (oximeter). 
• Make necessary arrangements. If a family member will be joining and they’ll be in a different location, tell your provider ahead of time so a three-way visit can be set up. Let family members in your home know when your appointment is so they can plan to help reduce any background noise. Also, ask any family members in your home to avoid streaming video during your appointment as that can interfere with the internet connection.
• Prepare your space. Look for a quiet location with as much light as possible. Make yourself comfortable so you can stay focused throughout the visit.
• Wear loose clothing. If you need to show the doctor your skin or another part of your body, make sure you can do so easily.
• Set up the technology. If you’re using your smartphone, make sure the camera is steady by propping it up on a desk or table. Close other applications because they can affect the quality of the connection and can be distracting. Set up in a location that has a strong internet signal. And to make sure you’re all set to go, sign on ahead of time and test your device.

Take advantage of telehealth from the comfort of home to stay connected with your doctor, receive sound medical advice, and get the regular care you need to stay healthy. It’s more important than ever.