TeleTalk: Navigating Telehealth Rules for Patient Engagement

TeleTalk: Navigating Telehealth Rules for Patient Engagement

Image by Tumisu from Pixabay

Patient engagement can be lower for telehealth visits compared to in-person visits, but it doesn’t have to be this way. There are ways to help improve engagement and make sure the patients are receiving the care they need when they do a telehealth visit. Use the tips below to make sure you’re prepared and know what to do to make the visit better for your patients. 

Learn Best Practices for Telehealth Visits

Start by knowing the rules for telehealth visits and ensure you understand both what is required and the best practices in place today. Knowing what needs to be done and what is recommended by experts can help ensure that telehealth visits go as smoothly as possible and that patients are able to receive the care they need. It is important to keep updated on this information so you always comply with laws and regulations in your area to prevent issues. 

Upgrade Video or Audio Equipment

It may be beneficial to look into upgrading video or audio equipment to make it easier for patients to hear what you have to say and to communicate their concerns with you. There are a ton of options today for video conferencing equipment, so look carefully to determine what might be needed for your office. It is important to make sure the patient can hear you clearly and to ensure you can see each other to get the most out of the appointment.

Prepare Patient Information Before the Visit

Are you ready for the visit? Don’t waste your time or the patient’s time at the beginning of a telehealth visit by trying to pull up their information and review it. Take the time to review their file before the visit begins so you know what they want to discuss during the visit, and of their medical history that might be applicable to the current situation, and more. By being better prepared, you can ensure patients can get as much as possible from every telehealth visit. 

Provide Clear Instructions for Patients

When you have a solution for the patient, whether it’s taking medication, follow-up care, or something else, make sure you provide clear information to them. Along with telling them everything during the visit, write down a summary of everything that was covered and email it to them at the end of the visit. This provides them with the information they need to move forward and can help make sure they don’t miss anything. 

Consider Communication Etiquette

Communication etiquette is vital today. Review what you should do or avoid during a telehealth visit, and make sure you know how to communicate clearly with the patients. Since there can be issues with equipment or wifi signals on either end, you will want to make sure you’re communicating as clearly as possible and showing that you are a professional who takes pride in helping their patients. 

If you are offering telehealth visits for patients and want to increase engagement and the care your patients receive, make sure you use the tips here. By taking the time to make sure you’re doing everything right and that you’re prepared for the telehealth visits, you can ensure all patients get the care they need and that they receive the same assistance they would get if they scheduled an in-person visit.

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