Is a Video Visit Right for You?

Although the technology and the capability to do “virtual” health care has been around for a number of years, 2020 and the global pandemic has made connecting with your doctor virtually more important than ever before.There are several benefits to a video visit with your health care provider. First, you can schedule and attend your appointment from the comfort of your own home. You don’t have to take time off work or coordinate transportation, there’s not the worry of potentially being exposed to COVID, and family members can also be present during your appointment if needed. 

You might be wondering what a video visit entails and if it’s right for you.Simply put, a video visit is when your medical provider – either a physician or advanced practice clinician–uses a telecommunication platform to communicate with their patients. 

CHI Memorial Medical Group uses Zoom for this purpose. Your physician can see you, listen and speak to you on your cell phone, tablet or computer. Although each office may have a slightly different procedure, at CHI Memorial Integrative Associates–Signal Mountain, a nurse will help you get on Zoom, ask questions about your condition the same as they would in the office, and prepare you to see your provider.  

While not every medical concern can be addressed with a video visit, some conditions like anxiety and depression, high blood pressure and type two diabetes follow up lend themselves to using this technology.Other non-emergent needs like a urinary tract infection, sinusitis or determining if a person should be tested for COVID can also be diagnosed and treated on a video visit.If your doctor feels that there’s a potentially more serious health concern that needs in-person attention, they will ask you to come into the office right away or go to the emergency room depending on the severity of the situation. 

Make the most of your video visit

There are a few things you can do to help create a positive virtual care experience. Good internet service and good lighting are important. Find a comfortable place to sit at your kitchen table or couch and position yourself facing a nearby window. This will help they physician see you clearly on the screen. Learning to use new technology can be tricky the first time, so try and test out the platform prior to your appointment. 

It’s also important to have objective data when you see your physician in the office or on a telehealth platform. Video visits are more successful when you have a way to check your temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen levels, weight and glucose levels (if diabetic). With this information we are able to alter blood pressure, diabetes or anxiety medications if needed. Even though nothing can replace seeing your physician face to face, video visits are a safe, effective way to stay connected, follow up on new or ongoing health concerns, and help you live a healthier life. 

To find a primary care physician in your area, visit CHI Memorial Medical Group.