3 Tips for Maximizing Your Telehealth Visits with Your Doctor
“Despite the appeal and convenience of telehealth visits, some patients find themselves frustrated with virtual appointments, feeling rushed or unable to communicate their concerns effectively.“
The New Era of Healthcare at Your Fingertips
Remember when we were all stuck in our homes, somewhere around March of 2020? Telehealth existed well before that, but its use skyrocketed from that time forward. Emergency Medicine remains a hands-on specialty, however, I was able to provide many urgent care telehealth visits in the past years. I’ve also been a telehealth patient and I’m ready to share my top tips with you. As you can imagine, telehealth has transformed how we access and provide healthcare, offering convenience and flexibility, particularly for those managing chronic or complex medical conditions. Whether you’re consulting a specialist, seeking a second opinion, or navigating ongoing treatment, virtual visits can save you time and reduce your stress. I want to help you make the most of your telehealth visits with these tips for preparation.
Why Traditional Telehealth Advice Falls Short
Despite the appeal and convenience of telehealth visits, some patients find themselves frustrated with virtual appointments, feeling rushed or unable to communicate their concerns effectively. The standard advice of “find a quiet space” and “test your technology” barely scratches the surface of what’s needed for a truly productive telehealth visit. Every minute with your healthcare provider counts, and proper preparation can mean the difference between leaving the call frustrated and hanging up with all of your questions answered and a clear plan for moving forward.
Essential Steps to Get the Most from Your Telehealth Visit
- Organize Your Medical Information in Advance
- Gather relevant medical records, including test results and specialist notes.
- Prepare a concise summary of your current symptoms, concerns, and any changes since your last visit. To do this best, you may consider recording your daily symptoms or changes in your condition leading up to the appointment. Share specific examples of how your symptoms impact daily life.
- Have a list of medications, including dosages and any recent adjustments.
- Optimize Your Technology and Environment
- Test your internet connection, camera, and microphone in advance.
- Ensure your device is fully charged and update any necessary apps or software.
- Choose a private, well-lit space free from background noise and distractions.
- Have a notepad ready to jot down key points or next steps during the conversation.
- Improve Medical Communication and Engagement
- Clearly outline your main concerns at the start of the appointment.
- Ask specific questions about diagnosis, treatment options, and care coordination strategies.
- Confirm the next steps, including referrals, follow-ups, or changes in medication.
- If specialist referral assistance is recommended, ask for specific names and contact information.
- If needed, bring a family caregiver or patient advocate to help facilitate the conversation and take notes.
What to Do After Your Telehealth Visit
After your appointment, keep the momentum going and take the next steps for your health:
- Review your doctor’s recommendations and update your personal health records.
- Schedule follow-up visits or tests as needed and add them to your calendar.
- Reach out for any additional support, such as home health care or specialist referral assistance.
Your Health, Your Voice: Take Charge of Your Virtual Care
Choosing a telehealth visit is great for convenience, but it also requires additional effort in preparation and at the visit so you can receive the highest quality care, even from a distance. By organizing your medical records, optimizing technology, and being concise and specific with your communication, you can prepare yourself to get the most out of your appointment. If you need assistance with preparation, care coordination, or medical communication support, you may want to check out my patient advocacy services to help you navigate the healthcare system with confidence.
Ready to Transform Your Healthcare Experience?
Don’t let the complexities of virtual healthcare management overwhelm you. As a Physician and Independent patient Advocate, I provide expert patient advocacy services to help you prepare for medical appointments, understand your diagnosis, and coordinate complex medical care. Contact me today to ensure you get the most out of your telehealth visits and beyond.
Note: Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your health management approach.
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Dr. Kelly Carter, MD, FACEP, BCPA is a Board Certified Patient Advocate as well as a board certified Emergency Physician with over 20 years of experience in the ER. She helps patients navigate complex medical conditions and healthcare decisions through AlignedCare Advocacy.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health professional for any questions you may have regarding your health.
