Thanks to telehealth, getting a checkup is easier than ever. You can consult a doctor from the comfort of your home, but it may take some adjustment if you’re used to in-person visits. Here’s how to get the most out of your telehealth visit.
What Is Telehealth?
Telehealth refers to using technology to provide health services over distances. You may see people using “telehealth” and “telemedicine” interchangeably, but there are somefeatures and characteristics of telehealththat separates it from telemedicine. Telemedicine refers to remote clinical care, like diagnosing a condition and prescribing treatment over video calls. Telehealth is a broader term that includes telemedicine and non-clinical services, like managing your medical bills online.
In most cases, a telehealth visit will look a lot like an in-person doctor’s appointment. The key difference is that you’ll talk to your doctor over video instead of at their office or the hospital.
How to Prepare for Telehealth Visits
To prepare for your telehealth visit, check your email and texts. Your doctor’s office should send you instructions on what to expect and information to have before your appointment.
Telehealth technology has come a long way, but there are still some things your doctor can’t do over the phone. you’re able to accommodate this by having as much up-to-date health information as possible before your visit. Have all your prescriptions and medical records ready. You can also use one of the manyAI health apps available todayto gather any necessary health data.
Next, find an ideal spot to take the call. Avoid public places, as they may make it hard to hear your doctor and could have unsafe Wi-Fi networks. Instead, choose a private, well-lit room in your home. ensure you have a strong internet signal.
Ways to Stay Secure During Your Visit
While telehealth visits are similar to in-person appointments, they pose unique security risks. According toKaspersky’s 2021 healthcare report, roughly a third of telehealth providers have compromised some patients’ data during telehealth visits, so do all you can to stay secure.
Telehealth security starts with using a private, encrypted Wi-Fi network. Check your router to ensure you have WPA2 or WPA3 encryption enabled. you may also use a virtual private network to provide an additional layer of security. When setting up your telehealth account, use a unique password and turn on multifactor authentication so that a hacker can’t brute force their way in.
Watch for any scams before, during, or after your visit. Don’t respond to any communication unless you’re sure it’s from your provider and never give away personal information over email or text.
Telehealth Can Be Quick, Easy, and Safe With These Steps
Telehealth visits can be remarkably convenient once you know what to expect. These steps can help ensure your virtual appointment is as easy and safe as possible. This fantastic technological adaptation ensures you get the care you need, regardless of your location.
