Telemedicine has transformed health care by making virtual connections between providers and patients easier and faster than ever before. If you’re new to telehealth visits, you may be seeking guidance on how to best prepare so you get the most out of your appointment. This month’s post can help with that.
The Spine Institute of Southeast Texas is your top choice for treating back and neck pain and other spine issues. Board-certified orthopedic surgeon Thomas Jones II, MD, provides exceptional spine care and offers telemedicine as an effective and convenient complement to in-person visits at his Pearland and Lake Jackson, Texas, locations.
Telemedicine allows you to communicate with a health care professional in real time about your symptoms, health issues, and other concerns — all from the comfort and convenience of your home, office, or wherever you are.
You can receive a diagnosis, get the results of your imaging tests, learn about your treatment options, and check in with your care team after surgery through telemedicine. When an in-person visit isn’t required, telemedicine provides an efficient, convenient, and practical option for getting you the care you need.
Many patients choose telemedicine appointments as part of their spine care plan. It’s beneficial when you’re working with your doctor to determine the next treatment steps and handy as you’re recovering from surgery. It’s also helpful when a tight schedule limits your availability — telehealth appointments eliminate the need for a commute to and from the office.
Many spine patients deal with pain or have reduced mobility, and telemedicine can help you stay connected to care without the need to leave home. Patients can continue to heal and rest and still get the top-quality spine care they’ve come to expect.
Technology is reshaping the world, making lives easier in many ways. You can make the most of your telehealth appointment by following these helpful tips.
You can expect to receive communication, usually in the form of a text, with a link and instructions on how to access your telemedicine appointment. Review the instructions thoroughly ahead of time so you’re well-prepared to log in and use the technology.
A good internet connection is essential for keeping your telemedicine appointment on track. A Wi-Fi network with a strong signal is preferred because it’s more stable and reliable, but you can also use the mobile data plan on your device.
Patients can connect to their appointment using a tablet, phone, or computer. Just make sure you're comfortable using whatever device you're going to use, rather than using it for the first time to participate in a telemedicine appointment.
Check that the camera and microphone on your device are working and providing clear video and audio. Try practicing with a family member or a friend ahead of time to ensure you understand how to use your camera during your virtual visit.
You’ll need a relatively quiet environment where you feel comfortable discussing your health care. Most importantly, choose a space where you can speak without interruptions.
Choose a room that receives a good internet signal. You want to avoid a “dead zone” or an area that’s prone to dropped calls. A place where you can sit comfortably that has good lighting is also helpful.
As you get ready for your appointment, make sure you have the following items on hand:
Being prepared helps to ensure that your telemedicine appointment goes smoothly.
The Spine Institute of Southeast Texas brings you top-tier spine care from the comfort of your home. To get started, call 713-987-7760 today to connect with a knowledgeable team member who is ready to assist you in scheduling a visit with Dr. Jones.
