Get the Most Out of Your Video Visit

12 tips for a successful video appointment

Doctor conducts medical appointment using video conferencing.

12 tips for a successful video appointment

There is no question that telemedicine, also called virtual care, has grown and improved patient access to health care.


Many patients have embraced video visits, which are now a permanent feature of telemedicine.


At Scripps, many health care needs — from wellness visits to follow-up care — can now be met through a video visit with a Scripps provider.


“Video visits won’t replace every visit, but where it makes sense, especially for care that doesn’t require a physical exam in person, they will continue to be a secure and convenient option for patients,” says David Wetherhold, MD, a Scripps Clinic internal medicine physician and Scripps chief medical information officer for ambulatory care.


In addition to video visits, Scripps also offers E-visits and Symptom Checker.

Video visits in real time, on your time

Scripps offers on-demand and scheduled primary care video visits for patients with Scripps Clinic and Scripps Coastal Medical Group. They are available with a doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant. On-Demand video visits for minor illnesses and injuries are also available through Scripps HealthExpress seven days a week. 


On-Demand video visits do not require an appointment. Simply log in to the MyScripps patient portal and select On-Demand Video Visit. If you need to schedule a video visit for another time, you can make an appointment through MyScripps. You can also make a video visit appointment with most primary care physicians online at Scripps.org.

 

Many specialists offer video visits by appointment. You can call the office to schedule a time. You can also make an appointment with some specialists online or through MyScripps.

Setting up is simple

Scripps video visits are conducted through the MyScripps patient portal. You can use any internet-connected device (smartphone, computer or tablet) with a working camera and microphone. You should also take a few minutes to make sure your device has the latest operating system update.


Health tools, such as a blood pressure cuff or thermometer, aren’t required, but they do come in handy, since some conditions can be managed or monitored remotely. 


Scripps is also part of the Apple Health app platform, meaning Apple Watches and other compatible devices can auto-upload data like your blood pressure, pulse and glucose levels to the MyScripps app, where your physician can easily access it.

12 tips for planning your video visit

Whether this is your first time having a medical appointment by video or you’re a veteran, there are steps you can take to make sure your visit goes smoothly. Follow these tips from Dr. Wetherhold:

1. Check Wi-Fi

Call from a quiet place that has good phone and Wi-Fi service. Remember to turn off background noise from the television or radio.

2. Find a private, quiet place

Set up in a quiet, private area, so you can discuss personal medical information.

3. Prepare your questions

Write down questions or concerns you may have in advance for your provider before the video visitation.

4. Get good light

Make sure there is plenty of light. Face a window or light if possible. You want to avoid sitting with your back in front of a window or other bright light as this will make it difficult for the provider to see you.

5. Hold your device horizontally

If using a mobile device, orient your phone or tablet horizontally and not vertically.

6. Provide good view of yourself

Your provider wants to see you! Make sure your face and upper body are in the video and not just the top of your head.

7. Consider getting camera help

You may be asked to move the camera to assist in evaluating a problem. Consider if you will want help in holding the camera if you are asked to perform physical exam maneuvers.

8. Test your device

 Log in to your online patient portal and test your device before the visit to troubleshoot any technical issues. Ensure that you are not on mute and that the microphone and camera on your device are enabled. At Scripps, the online patient portal is MyScripps.

9. Check in early

Start your visit check-in process at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled time.

10. Silence your phone

If you are using your mobile phone, don’t be on a phone call when the visit begins.

11. Tap to hear better

If you can’t hear the audio, tap the screen and then press the microphone button twice.

12. Be ready to take notes

Have pen and paper to write down information.

Choose a video visit

You can check online or call you doctor’s office to make sure a Video Visit is right for you. If you are experiencing a life-threatening condition, such as chest pain or a broken bone, always go to the emergency room or call 911.

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