Online doctor visits offer a way to connect with your provider at anytime, anywhere. They work like in-person appointments, but faster and more convenient.
They come in three main forms: video visits, phone calls and email or messaging. To make them work, you’ll need a device with an internet or cellular connection.
Choosing a doctor.
The first step in the virtual appointment process is deciding on a medical provider with whom you are comfortable and whose credentials you can trust. Maven’s matching feature will take the guesswork out of choosing an appropriate match for your needs and your pocketbook. Once you’ve found your match, you can choose from a variety of appointment times, departs, and locales to suit your schedule and your budget. Maven makes it even easier to do your virtual shopping with a handy dandy mobile app that lets you book, cancel, and track appointments on the go. The mobile app also features a health checkup toolbox that lets you see and hear your doctor at the same time, as well as an online appointment book for future reference.
Scheduling an appointment.
Appointments are a great option for people who want to see their doctor but don’t have the time or resources to travel. They can be especially useful for patients who have an ongoing health concern and already have a relationship with their doctors.
To get started with a virtual visit, contact your doctor’s office and request a appointment. This can be a video consultation or phone call with your provider, and they will ask you to provide some details about your symptoms and other medical information before the appointment.
The doctor will also ask you to show them any medical images or videos you may have. These will help your medical provider determine the best course of action and may also give you a better idea of what to expect during the appointment.
Before the virtual visit, make sure that you have a working internet connection and that your digital devices are ready to use. Check out tip sheets for solutions to common technical issues and test your hardware in advance of the appointment.
During the appointment.
If you’re planning on seeing a doctor for the first time, it’s a good idea to prepare in advance. Make sure to wear comfortable attire and bring a list of questions for your doctor.
During your appointment, you’ll likely be seen by a nurse who will assess your weight and height to determine the appropriate exam room. The doctor will likely ask you a few pertinent questions, such as when you last had your menstrual cycle and how many pregnancies you’ve had.
A virtual doctor visit is a convenient and cost-effective way to access your provider when you need it the most, reducing your need for in-person visits, lowering your medical bills and saving you time and energy. To ensure a smooth experience, eliminate any distracting factors such as noise or screen freezes and give your provider your undivided attention. The medical technology industry is booming, and new technology is being developed on an almost daily basis.
After the appointment.
Once you’ve scheduled a virtual doctor visit, there are some things you can do before your appointment to make it more comfortable. This includes making sure you have certain digital devices available and that they’re working properly.
Then, try to find a quiet, private place in your home where you can talk to the provider. Ideally, that should be a room with good lighting, and not in the middle of a busy area.
Conclusion
Another option is to bring a friend or family member with you. This person can help you remember what to discuss with the doctor and can take notes, if needed.
Before your appointment, be sure to have your health insurance information and any paperwork you need filled out. Also, have a list of questions prepared that you want to ask the doctor.
