Can Telehealth Work for Me if I'm Technically Challenged?

Telehealth medical visits have become an increasingly popular option for patients with all sorts of health needs, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.

But even though telehealth offers lots of benefits, plenty of people are still reluctant to use telehealth, concerned they might not have the technical skills it requires.

If that sounds like you, we have some good news: Telehealth visits are simple, and the skills you need to have a successful visit are minimal. In fact, telehealth can be a great way for just about anyone to get the care they need without traveling to their provider’s office.

At Premier Physicians Weight Loss & Wellness, we’re a leading provider of state-of-the-art telehealth visits for patients in and around Las Vegas, Henderson, and Reno, Nevada.

In this post, Dana Trippi, DO, and our team offer seven simple tips to help you feel confident about scheduling telehealth visits for your health needs.

1. Check your internet connection

Telehealth visits are conducted over the internet using your computer or smartphone. A spotty internet connection could result in disconnection or problems with communication. It might even mean your visit needs to be rescheduled.

Before your appointment, make sure your internet connection is strong. If you’re using a smartphone or depending on a hotspot to connect to the internet, avoid moving around during your visit; too much movement can result in a loss of signal strength.

2. Find a quiet, private space

Most people feel more comfortable discussing their medical and health care needs privately. Make sure the space you’re using allows for privacy, and ask family members not to interrupt.

Choose a quiet space that has plenty of light. Taking these extra steps ensures you can understand what your provider is saying during your appointment, and it’s easier for your provider to see and hear you too.

3. Make a list of questions and concerns

That’s good advice whether you’re having a telehealth or in-person office visit. It’s easy to become distracted during a medical visit. Making a list of questions ensures you don’t forget to ask your provider important questions. 

4. Choose a familiar device

A telehealth visit is no time to break in a new device. Select a device you’re familiar with — a laptop, desktop, tablet, or smartphone is fine. Practice using the microphone and camera too. Prior to your visit, we provide a list of steps to help make sure your visit is a success.

5. Speak clearly

Our team uses the most advanced telehealth software available, but to get the most from your visit, speak clearly and look directly into the camera. 

Your provider relies on your input to make decisions regarding your care, so make sure your needs are clearly communicated.

6. Take notes

Just like making a list of questions ahead of time can help, making notes during your visit is a good idea for both telehealth and in-person visits. Notes help remind you of what happened during your visit and reinforce your provider’s instructions.

Keep your notes brief. And if it’s too distracting to take notes while talking to your provider, skip it.

7. Above all, relax

Using a telehealth system is a learned skill, and even though the process is simple, you might still feel a little overwhelmed. If that’s the case, let your provider know. They can walk you through your visit or suggest an in-person visit.

Telehealth isn’t right for every medical need. There are times when you need to be evaluated in person or have in-person medical and health evaluations. But telehealth can be a great choice for managing chronic issues, including weight management. 

If you’d like to learn more about telehealth and how it can help you achieve your health goals, give us a call at Premier Physicians Weight Loss & Wellness or request your appointment online today.