Telehealth, also known as telemedicine, refers to the use of digital communication tools to provide medical care remotely. It has become increasingly popular due to its convenience and accessibility.
These are virtual face-to-face appointments conducted via video conferencing platforms. They are suitable for consultations where visual assessment is beneficial, such as follow-ups or initial assessments.
Benefits of Telehealth
- Convenience: Patients can attend appointments from the comfort of their own homes, which can save time and reduce the need for travel.
- Accessibility: It improves access to care, especially for those living in remote or underserved areas.
- Cost-Effective: It can reduce the costs associated with in-person visits, such as transportation and time off work.
- Continuity of Care: It allows for regular follow-ups and management of chronic conditions without the need for physical visits.
Preparing for a Telehealth Appointment
Prior to your visit, you’ll receive an appointment confirmation email and a reminder message via email or text message, depending on your preferred method of contact on file with the practice (so long as you’ve previously consented to such messaging with your healthcare provider’s office). These messages will include the details of your visit, and the URL to access your telehealth session. The initial confirmation email will also include a link to a pre-appointment device check, which gives you the option to test and troubleshoot your device settings any time before your appointment. In addition, you can access the URL for your telehealth session any time by viewing your appointment details on the Patient Portal.
Desktop
- Google Chrome (latest three versions), for macOS and Windows
- Microsoft Edge (chromium-based, version 79 and later), for Windows
- Safari (version 12+) on macOS
- Firefox (latest three versions), for macOS and Windows
Mobile
- Google Chrome on Android (latest three versions)
- Samsung Browser (version 12+) on Android
- Safari on iOS 12+ (This feature doesn’t support other browsers such as Chrome on iOS)
- Prepare Your Environment. Choose a quiet, well-lit area for the appointment to minimize distractions and ensure your healthcare provider can see and hear you clearly.
- Gather Medical Information. Have any relevant medical records, medications, and a list of symptoms or questions ready to discuss.
- After clicking the link and verifying your connection, you should:
- Enter your name, to be displayed when your provider joins the call.
- Consent to athenaTelehealth Terms of Use and Informed Patient Consent.
- Make sure that you allow your browser to access your camera and microphone if prompted to do so. Correct any issues found during automated readiness checks.
- Enter the private virtual waiting room.
- Relax! Your visit will start when a second participant arrives.
- Join the telehealth visit. As soon as a second participant joins the room, the visit will begin automatically. Multiple providers may enter and exit the room throughout the visit, as appropriate. The practice staff should inform you when it’s time to leave the session, or let you know to stay present and wait for another provider to join the session. When the visit is over and you leave the telehealth session, a “Thank you!” message will appear and inform you that you may close the window.
After the Appointment
- Follow-Up: Follow any instructions or treatment plans provided by your healthcare provider. Schedule any necessary follow-up appointments.
- Documentation: Keep a record of your telehealth visits and any prescribed medications or recommendations.
