Getting ready for your first video visit? Or just want some tips and tricks? QueerDoc has been doing all of our visits through video chat since 2018! Here are our recommendations:
Stuff You Will Need
- A device with a webcam, speakers, and microphone like a tablet, smartphone, laptop, or desktop
- Make sure it is CHARGED or (plugs in comfortably for the visit)
- Make sure it is UPDATED (web browsers, Simple Practice Telehealth App)
- You may want headphones with a microphone for better sound
- Stable internet connection – strong wifi or mobile signal
- Mobile data charges may apply
- Privacy
- Be somewhere you can share your medical information without others overhearing
- Somewhere with minimal other noises, so you and your provider can hear each other
- Some people do this in their car
- Lighting
- Your provider wants to be able to see you from the chest up
- Avoid having the light source behind you
Get The Most From Your Visit
- Be prepared as above and treat this like an in-person doctor’s visit
- Log in early in case you have to troubleshoot any issues
- Minimize distractions so you can really focus on your health
- Providers may have to discontinue visits and reschedule if you appear to be too distracted, especially if it is a safety issue like DRIVING
- If possible be stationary and upright, with your face well-lit and your shoulders in-frame
- Be patient – technical issues happen sometimes
- Usually your provider will call your number on file to try and help you navigate them
At QueerDoc, we use Simple Practice to facilitate our video visits, and you can review their telehealth manual here: https://support.simplepractice.com/hc/en-us/articles/360003183011-Telehealth-FAQs-for-clients#whatistele