7. Plug in Your Computer or Mobile Device if you can
8. Find a quiet space.
9. Read the patient complaint beforehand, if possible.
Just like any other visit, try to take a minute before starting the visit to read the patient complaint and familiarize yourself with the patient record. You'll be more prepared for the visit and will likely make the appointment more efficient.
10. Adjust the lighting.
The lighting in your space can have a big effect on the quality of your video. Pro tip - try turning on overhead lights and blocking light from windows, which can lead to too much background light in the video.
11. Share your screen when prompted.
Most any app that’s accessing your webcam needs to request permission. For example, you’ll see a pop-up in your browser that prompts you to allow permission of your camera. When a physician or patient’s video isn’t working, the number one reason is that they haven’t allowed access to their camera. So, make sure you do this step!
12. Follow the same clinical guidelines you would with an in-person visit.
You know the drill. Even if you can't do a physical exam, you can ask good questions and take a thorough history of present illness. While the technology and interaction is different, the key clinical guidelines apply to a virtual visit the same way as a physical appointment.
13. Stay Engaged.
Again, treat the virtual visit like you would an in-person visit. Try to maintain eye contact and nod along to show you’re listening. If you need to take notes or look at something, mention that you’re doing so to the patient –they may not be able to see exactly what you’re doing, and taking notes could just seem like you’re distracted or not engaged in the visit.
14. Explain Next Steps.
Once the visit's over, thank the patient for doing a virtual visit and explain what they need to do next (this could be picking up their electronically prescribed medication from their nearest pharmacy, or scheduling a follow-up appointment in the next month).This is also a great opportunity to ask the patient what they thought of the virtual visit process, if this was their first one. With that feedback in hand, you'll continue to make your virtual visits more successful!