Navigating telehealth: What to expect at a remote doctor’s visit

The coronavirus pandemic has changed many aspects of life, including how we go grocery shopping, how kids attend school and how doctors’ offices handle appointments. The COVID-19 outbreak spurred a massive shift to remote “telehealth” digital healthcare services to protect both medical staff and patients. One of the biggest components of telehealth is “telemedicine,” which means using technologies and telecommunication systems to administer healthcare to patients.

While there are situations that still require in-person visits, certain facilities might require or ask patients to have a remote doctor’s appointment over a video call to mitigate the risk of COVID-19. If you’re new to this rapidly emerging technology, here’s what to expect and how to prepare for a virtual doctor’s visit.