No one can argue that the pandemic has drastically changed everyone’s way of life, some for better and some for worse. However, if there is any upside to the current situation, it’s the emergence of telemedicine visits. While not new, telemedicine visits are a great way to stay safe while still receiving top notch podiatry care.
So, What Is A Telemedicine Visit? How Are They Used In Podiatry?
Essentially, a telemedicine visit is a medical conference that is done via either telephone or online video platform (think Zoom, Skype, Google Duo, etc).
While not every podiatry concern is available to be managed via telemedicine, many can still be done as easily in the comfort of home as they would be in the office. These visits allow patients to continue receiving care without having to put themselves at increased risk, especially those that may be immunocompromised. Ultimately, they allow for the continued health of all of our patients without having to sacrifice your safety.
Telemedicine visits are especially important for patients who are dealing with chronic podiatry issues like diabetic related foot problems or wound control. Instead of letting your care lapse while many offices are seeing less in-office patients, telemedicine visits provide a continuity of care that simply wasn’t possible a few years ago.
As you can see, there are many benefits to telemedicine. But is there anything else you should know before your appointment time?
What Should I Do To Prepare Myself For A Telemedicine Visit?
While not much preparation is necessary for your telemed visit, there are a few tips to take into consideration before your appointment time.
First and foremost, confirm the platform you’re planning on using with our office. While multiple platforms may be available, you don’t want to be waiting on Zoom while your provider is on Skype. It’s also important to check to make sure your internet connection is strong enough to enable a visit without buffering. A telemedicine visit where you can’t communicate effectively with your provider isn’t worth your time or your money, and appointments may need to be rescheduled if the WiFi doesn’t allow for quality communication.
In addition, make sure that you have a quiet, private space for your telemed visit. You will be discussing private health information, so make sure that you’re doing it in a place you feel comfortable and where no one can hear your personal information. If you prefer to have a loved one with you, your provider may require verbal consent to discuss your health in front of them prior to the appointment starting.
You may also want to make sure that your health insurance will cover a telemedicine visit. While many insurances have started allowing reimbursement for these visits due to the pandemic, not all of them will. It’s better to figure this out ahead of time instead of getting an unexpected bill. If you’re unsure, give us a call. Copays may also be required, which will need to be paid ahead of your appointment.
To schedule an telemedicine appointment or to find out additional information, give our Mooresville office a call at 704-662-3660. We want to make sure everyone continues to get care, even during these uncertain times. We’re more than happy to answer any questions you may have to make sure that your podiatry concerns don’t get pushed to the wayside. Stay safe!