How to Get the Most From Your Telemedicine Appointment

The University of Kentucky Public Relations & Strategic Communications Office provides a weekly health column available for use and reprint by news media. This week's column is by Joneen Lowman, Ph.D., associate professor in the UK College of Health Sciences, who leads the college’s Graduate Certificate in Telehealth program.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 13, 2020) — Telemedicine, or telehealth, is the use of technology to connect patients with health care providers. It’s used by physicians, specialists, nurses, mental health providers, rehabilitation therapists, dietitians and more.

Patients choose telehealth for a variety of reasons:

• Lack of access to a health care provider in their community.
• Travel is too great or costly.
• Complex health needs or physical limitations make it difficult or even dangerous to go out into the community. 
• Convenience.

In Kentucky, most health insurances and Medicaid cover telehealth.  In response to COVID-19, Medicare is currently reimbursing for a wide range of telehealth services but verify with your insurer first.  If you believe telehealth is an option for you, here are a few things to know:

• Equipment:  A computer with internet works best, but a cell phone or tablet may be substituted depending on the reason for the visit. Your device needs a webcam, speakers and microphone. These are built into most computers and mobile devices or can be purchased and plugged into a device.
• Medical equipment: For the average checkup, no equipment is needed. In some instances, you will need a scale to provide your weight or a thermometer to check your temperature. Patients on oxygen or with diabetes may need access to their equipment to provide current readings. If specialty medical equipment is required, your doctor may schedule the telehealth appointment at a local healthcare center.
• Privacy and security: Have your driver’s license or state identification to verify your identity. Choose a private location, like your home. While it’s tempting to use free wifi offered by restaurants and malls, for privacy reasons your doctor will not be able to see you in these locations. If internet access is a problem, speak with your health care provider about alternate locations.
• Preparing for the appointment: Find a quiet space free from distractions with good lighting. To avoid glare, don’t sit near a window or open door or with a mirror to your back. Turn off a ceiling fan or anything overhead that could be distracting. Turn off the television and engage children in an activity. Turn off any apps that might be running on your device to maximize bandwidth. Remember, this is a medical appointment. Pause other activities and focus on the visit.
• Accessing the appointment: Health care providers use a variety of platforms for telehealth.  They should send you information on how to access your telehealth appointment ahead of time. Usually, you will need an email account to receive the information.
• Payment:  Depending on your insurance plan, your telehealth session may have a copay.  Payment may be collected via credit or debit card during the appointment, or you may receive a bill in the mail.  Check with your provider before scheduling your appointment.

Telehealth does offer quality health care and has been used across Kentucky for more than 20 years.  Like many things in life, though, telehealth may not be the right option for you.  Always discuss with your provider the best options for meeting your health needs.