How to Prepare for Your First Telehealth Visit

no child particularly enjoys going to a doctor’s appointment, the idea of a virtual pediatric visit can also be intimidating to some kids. As a parent, you know there are various advantages to taking your child into their pediatrician’s office, but sometimes other circumstances make this next to impossible. After-hours sicknesses, busy schedules, and other complicated situations make telehealth the best option for your little one. It is convenient, customized, and available when and where you need it. If your child is scheduled for an upcoming telemedicine appointment, it is a good idea to prepare ahead of time. Here are some practical tips that might help you and your child. 

5 Tips for a Successful Virtual Pediatric Visit

As a partner in your child’s health care journey, we want to help make the transition from in-person care to at-home care as seamless as possible. Before your child’s next visit, review these tips:

Choose a private, quiet location.

Find a quiet, well-let, and distraction-free location for your pediatric telehealth visit. Your camera should be at eye level so you and your child can have a direct conversation with your care provider. 

Consider technology requirements. 

Having the right technology can make for a successful telehealth urgent care visit. Whether using a phone, computer, or tablet, ensure you know how to use the virtual pediatrician’s app or video chat beforehand. Check with your virtual provider ahead of time, especially if this is your first telemedicine appointment, to ensure everything is working correctly. 

Have their medical history and important documents available. 

When booking your online appointment, you will need to fill out your child’s complete medical history and answer questions related to their symptoms. And, just like before any in-person doctor’s visit, you always want to gather relevant paperwork and documents. You should have the following documents on hand:

• List of prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, supplements your child takes, known allergies, and any previous diagnoses  
• Your child’s pharmacy address and phone number
• Your pediatrician’s name and contact information
• Insurance information

Take notes and jot down questions.

It is natural for your child to be nervous during a doctor’s visit, especially if it is online and with a new pediatrician. Ask your child if they have any questions about how they are feeling before the telehealth visit to ensure you do not forget to ask these crucial questions. You, as a parent, will also probably have some questions, so write down everything you want to ask the doctor. Throughout the appointment, remember to write down directions or treatment options the doctor shares with you. While you will not have a physical prescription to reference after the call, most telehealth services offer an online portal. At Hello Pediatrics, your detailed virtual care visit summary is sent to your pediatrician to ensure they know exactly what happened and how to follow up if additional care is needed. 

Discuss the treatment plan and follow-up care. 

Before your child’s virtual care visit ends, ensure that you understand the diagnosis, instructions, or advice the provider offered. In many cases, you may need to have a prescription filled or have to make a follow-up appointment with your pediatrician. 

Why Choose Hello Pediatrics?

Virtual pediatric visits can provide several services. At Hello Pediatrics, we provide: 

• Board-certified pediatricians who are committed to delivering a patient-family experience.
• Customized care and treatment plans for your child from the comfort of your home.
• A platform supported by our providers that will connect with your pediatrician about your visit.
• Care for patients ranging from infants to 21 years of age.
• Lower costs than in-office visits; we will bill you through your insurance.
• Convenient, after-hours service from Monday to Friday 5pm-10pm, Saturday 12pm-6pm, and Sunday 4pm-10pm. Holiday hours are available too! 

We also address issues such as:

• Fevers
• Sinus Infection
• Allergies
• Runny Nose
• Ear Pain
• Eye Problems
• Congestion
• Vomiting
• Sore Throat
• Stomach Aches
• And so much more

Take comfort in knowing your child is cared for with the superior telehealth services of Hello Pediatrics. Contact us to book a convenient after-hours appointment.