What is Telemedicine?
As a result of the recent pandemic, the medical community has recognized the tremendous utility that wireless communication technology can contribute to the delivery of healthcare. Telemedicine utilizes current technology to allow patients to connect with their doctors virtually without the burden of arranging transport to a doctor’s office and spending time in a waiting room. Your physician is able to discuss your concerns, order and evaluate objective lab data and imaging if needed, and prescribe the appropriate medications for you remotely.
Virtual physical examination can be performed at home or wherever you may be. It allows you to avoid waiting rooms that might expose you to other sick patients. It is primarily observational as is the majority of a standard in-person examination. The following can greatly enhance your encounter:
- Trusted family member or close friend present
- Written list of your questions and medications
- Charged device with strong internet connection
- High resolution camera
- Small flashlight
Checking your height, weight, temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and oximetry just before your appointment can help to better utilize your time with your doctor. Don’t worry! We are here to help and you will become an expert. Please see below for a list of equipment that will help you keep track of your health at home:
- Thermometer
- Upper arm blood pressure monitor
- Fingertip pulse oximeter
- Digital scale
- Tape measure
How Does It Work?
- Contact us by phone or email to make an appointment. You can also request an appointment online using the green link at the bottom of our website. We will review your requested time and get back to you.
- Once your appointment is confirmed, you will receive digital intake forms by text message and email.
- When intake forms are completed, we will create your medical chart and prepare it for your appointment.
- You will receive a text message with a link to our virtual waiting room. You can also join the virtual waiting room by using the gray link at the bottom of our website.
- Enter the virtual waiting room 5 minutes before your appointment time. Enter your name and complete your camera and microphone test. Click “knock” to let the doctor know you’re ready.
- When the doctor is ready for you, he will connect with you in the HIPAA-compliant video chat.
- After your appointment, your doctor will update your chart to reflect the encounter. Prescriptions will be sent electronically to your pharmacy. You will receive an invitation to register for your Patient Portal where you can access order forms for diagnostics and results.
- If you signed up for membership care, you will receive an invitation to join our network on the OhMD secure texting app after completion of your first appointment. You will be able to communicate with your physician directly.