How to Make the Most of Your Virtual Care Visit
May 7, 2021By: Jodi Rawson
Categories: High Tech, Live Healthy, Prevention
The COVID-19 pandemic made it more important than ever to remain vigilant about protecting your health. And part of protecting your health is taking care of your primary health needs and concerns. But for many people, scheduling a visit to their doctor’s office wasn’t an option.
As a result, virtual visits, which allow people to connect with a healthcare provider about nonurgent medical needs from the safety and comfort of their own home, grew in popularity. Virtual visits can reduce risk of infection for sick and at-risk patients while protecting healthcare workers and the community.
Prepare for Your Virtual Visit
There are a few steps you can take ahead of time to make sure you get the most out of your virtual visit.
Be sure your medical need is one a healthcare provider can assess through a virtual visit. Virtual visits are best when you need treatment for minor illnesses and injuries, such as:
- Acid reflux
- Allergy and cold symptoms
- Infections such as pink eye and cold sores
- Minor cuts, scrapes and bumps
- Wellness screenings
Through a virtual visit, your doctor can also help you manage:
- Chronic illnesses
- Diabetes
- Heart disease symptoms
- High blood pressure
- Neurological problems
- Kidney problems
- Rheumatological conditions
- Skin conditions
Other healthcare conditions, such as ear infections, the flu and strep throat, require an in-person visit.
Emergencies
If you have a serious, life-threatening health concern, go to the nearest emergency room.
Find a Quiet, Private Place
Think about what a provider’s office or exam room is like: a quiet, private space where you can get your health needs addressed properly. Try to mimic this as much as possible for your virtual visit. If you can, find a well-lit space free of distractions, where you can have an uninterrupted conversation.
Get Tech Ready
For a successful visit, make sure you:
- Have a smartphone, tablet or desktop/laptop computer with a camera, microphone and stable internet connection
- Enable access to the device’s camera and microphone (Note: For the best experience, use Chrome, Firefox, Safari 11+, Microsoft Edge (if running Windows 10) or the Samsung mobile browser)
- Test your video, audio and speakers to be sure everything works properly
What You Need for Your Virtual Care Visit
Once your technology is up and running, you will also need:
- Your driver’s license and insurance information
- A list of current medications and any updates to your medical record; if you have access to North Kansas City Hospital and Meritas Health’s myhealth patient portal, take a moment to review your health information before your visit
Tips for a Successful Virtual Care Visit
Write down any questions, and keep paper and a pen close by to take notes
- Bring any devices or test results you would typically bring to an in-person visit to your virtual visit
- Consider having a spouse or other family member attend the visit with you
At the end of your virtual visit, confirm you understand everything the provider said and know the next steps, such as having lab work done or prescriptions filled.
“Our hope is you will get the same benefit from the virtual care setting as you would in your provider’s office,” said Samin Akhtar MD, an internal medicine doctor with Meritas Health North Kansas City. “We want to know everything that’s been going on, how you’re feeling, what medications you’re taking and all of the questions you have. In most cases, we can treat you the same way we would if you were in the office.”
Your Health is Essential
Meritas Health offers virtual care visits, and our providers are ready to care for you.
Meritas Health Express Virtual Visits
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Find out more about Meritas Health’s virtual care options.
