Virtual medical care is a great way to connect with your doctor without having to go into your doctor’s office. This is usually done through video conferencing. These types of appointments are best for minor ailments, such as coughs, colds, rashes, etc. It is a great alternative to health care when an actual physical examination isn’t required. Virtual care is also great for mental health care as well. But before your virtual visit begins, there are a few helpful tips that you can use to make sure you get the most out of your visit. 

Before you even schedule your virtual visit, you should verify that your health insurance covers this type of appointment. You should contact your provider and ask what the out of pocket cost will be associated with virtual visits. If you are seeing your primary care physician, the coverage may be the same as an in person visit. But you will still want to verify with your insurance company what type of coverage you carry. Since the coronavirus pandemic, many insurance companies are working to include the same coverage for virtual visits versus in person visits. 

Once you have verified your health insurance coverage you will be ready to make your virtual appointment. This is usually done online or by calling your doctor’s office. Some offices will have patient portals where you can log in and have access to your medical information and can request appointments as well. Once your appointment is scheduled, you will need to make sure that you will have internet access for your allotted appointment time. For video calls you will need to make sure that you have the ability to video conference in. Make sure are aware of the procedures for starting your virtual visit. 

For the actual visit you will want to make sure that you set up in a quiet and well-lit area. You want to make sure that you and your doctor can hear and see each other clearly. Using headphones will allow you both to hear each other more clearly without any outside noise and distractions. It will also give you more privacy. Be patient, technology can be unreliable. The internet may lag and screens may freeze, make sure to stay calm and be patient while things load back up. 

Prepare for your visit the same way you would an in person visit. Make sure you can list the timeline of your symptoms, be prepared to review your medical history, and have any over the counter medications readily available as well as any prescriptions you may be taking. It can be helpful to make a list of questions you have for your doctor so that you are prepared to discuss any concerns. 

Overall, treat this visit like you would any other medical visit. Be prepared to discuss your symptoms and be ready to receive their medical advice. If communication is clear, it will help the doctor diagnose the problem and give you, the patient, the medical treatment that is necessary.