Improvements in technology in recent years have paved the way for telemedicine. According to a survey conducted by Merritt Hawkins, almost half of all practicing physicians are using telemedicine to treat patients. This change can be simultaneously positive and overwhelming, particularly for medical professionals who are less familiar with the technology. Take advantage of the following advice to help make the telehealth experience better for you and your patients.
7 telehealth tips to make the process easier
You may be surprised by how simple telehealth can be as you become more proficient with using it.
1. Have an environment conducive to streaming video
It can be distracting or difficult for a patient to see or pay attention to a physician when there is visual interference. Is the light bright enough for the doctor to be seen? Is it too bright, causing glare on the screen? Wearing appropriate attire for the camera is also helpful, as a bold or distracting pattern can be disruptive.
2. Do an equipment check first
It is impossible to have a successful telehealth call when your camera or microphone is not working. How stable is your internet connection? Will you be dealing with lag or glitches that make communication difficult? Do a test run before your first appointment each day to ensure your equipment is functioning.
3. Understand the patients’ needs
A patient who is hard of hearing or visually impaired will have unique needs on a telehealth call. This type of call should also look different for a patient who is not familiar with technology or speaks a different language. Adjust each call based on the needs of the patient to improve the patient experience.
4. Make eye contact with the camera
Look at the camera when speaking, not the image of the patient on the screen. Unless the patient is trying to show you something, talking to the camera expresses more interest in the patient and helps them feel heard.
5. Use appropriate language and tone
Because you are using a different form of communication, adjusting your tone to a lower volume and making it a point to annunciate your words can be a huge help. Try to speak a bit slower and make sure the patient can see your lips moving when you are talking.
6. Specify next steps
Share all instructions for treatment plans, patient care, or appointments before ending the call. Making sure not to leave anything out and not assuming the patient knows what to do next can help avoid unnecessary complications.
7. Stay on the call until the patient is finished
Allowing the patient to end the call helps ensure there are no unanswered questions or unvoiced concerns you may not have known to address. It can also make the patient feel valued rather than rushed.
Embrace technology and improve your practice
Advances in technology should only make telemedicine more popular and effective. The team at Doctor Genius understands the difference having the right tools can make for your practice. That is why we offer technology and hosting solutions in addition to content marketing and our Patient Experience Package. Get in touch with a trained member of our team today to start customizing a solution for your practice. Grow your knowledge of technology and your practice together.
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