The rise of telehealth
While the term telehealth may seem trendy at the moment, it’s something that’s here to stay. Advanced technology has made it easier than ever to “see” your doctor, even if you’re not in the same zip code. At the Breathe Clear Institute, we continue to offer in-person and online appointments to accomodate all of our patients and the ever-changing CDC guidelines. While COVID-19 might have popularized virtual appointments, it’s something we’ve invested in for the long-term.
How virtual appointments work
First, we want you to make an appointment online using our portal. It will ask you for your name, email address, phone number, reason for contacting, and a message to give us more details on your condition. Once we’ve received your information, we will reach out to you to schedule a time that works for you and the availability of our specialists. The Breathe Clear Institute staff member who reaches out to you will alert you to anything you may need to have handy for the appointment, but the first meeting is usually preliminary. From there, we will come up with next steps together and determine if you need to come into the office for an in-pertain consultation.
Virtual appointments do require good internet connection or use of wireless data, a camera, working speakers, a browser that supports our online video conference platform. Use of smartphones, tablets, and computers are all acceptable. You will be guided through the tech process in your confirmation email. Please be sure to test your technology before joining your scheduled appointment.
Advantages and disadvantages of virtual appointments
While a virtual appointment might sound counterintuitive to seeing a doctor, we can assure you that it works. Although, there are advantages and disadvantages of going virtual.
Going virtual for medical appointments is great for preliminary and follow-up appointments, health screenings, medication management, counseling and education, behavioral and mental health services, and for those who are not physically able to make an appointment or live close to the doctor’s office.
There are, however, obvious disadvantages of going virtual which include troubleshooting and poor internet connections and the general lack of connection that you’re used to by going into an office. But, we will work with you to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible.
Tips for getting the most out of a virtual appointment include being ready to take notes, checking your setup ahead of time, having all paperwork ready or completed before your appointment, preparing yourself with an appropriate setting and thinking about inviting a friend or family member to be with you for support.
In the event of an emergency, virtual appointments are not the best course of action. Please see a doctor immediately if you suspect something is time-sensitive or life-threatening.
Ready to go virtual? Schedule an appointment with Breathe Clear Institute
We are more available to you than ever before with our virtual support and appointments. While COVID-19 may have stopped in-person visits, ENT issues never stop. We invite you to make a virtual appointment with us to get your diagnosis and treatment plans moving.