Nowadays most of us have gotten used to do online visits and know how work out computers and phones, but here there are some extra tips to make sure that your telemedicine visits go smoothly.

The first and most important thing you need is a device that will support video communications over the internet, this could be a smart phone, tablet, or a computer. It helps if your device’s software is up to date, as many platforms for video calls require updated systems to work efficiently. That way you avoid having glitches with audio or video due to incompatibility between your device and the video platform. Make sure your device is fully charged, so you don’t get interrupted by having to get up and find your charger or the call gets disconnect unexpectedly. This could be very annoying, specially if it happens at a time where you are finally able to open up and talk about a difficult issue.

Now that your computer or phone is updated and charged, you may want to try out the link or invite sent by your provider before the time of the visit, in case there is an issue so you can let your therapist or practitioner know ahead of time, this will allow your provider to prepare and maybe offer other forms of communication. Be on time, when doing telehealth every minute counts, as is often when you can encounter technical issues and it can take time away from your visit.

Some cell phone companies have great reception, and you may do just fine relying on the internet connection of your phone. But, for better quality you may want to connect to a strong Wi-Fi to avoid interruptions or issues with the internet connection, which can result in frustration on both parts, specially if the call gets disconnected when discussing intimate or serious issues that you may not want to repeat over and over. Seating next to your router may the best.

It would be great if you have tripod for your phone or tablet so you can put the phone on a table and sit comfortably, as holding your device for an hour or half hour can make it difficult and very uncomfortable. Your therapist will also appreciate getting a good image of you, at least from your waist up, so that way they can assess your affect, mobility, demeanor, and overall motor activity. For a good picture you will need good lighting, so if you have ring light use it, but sitting in front of a window can be just what you need.

At all cost avoid taking your teletherapy/telemedicine call while lying in bed or under the covers, you would not receive your provider at home like this. This type of visits should be treated with the same respect and care as you would if you were coming in person to the clinic. This next one may seem common sense but through my practice doing telemedicine it is something that is often brought up, be appropriately DRESSED. Again, just like you would when going into the office, dressed appropriately, but comfortable. If you were running late and were in the middle of showering or changing, let your provider know mute your camera and your provider will gladly wait. Keep in mind that the relationship with your therapist or psychiatric provider is one based in trust, respect, professionalism and appropriate and clear boundaries.

Sometimes being at home implies that there will be some distractions, kids running around, family or friends talking or walking, cooking etc… It is recommended that you find a place where you can be alone, this way you avoid distractions, and you can fully talk without feeling limited on how much you can share or say. It could be distracting for you and your therapist, hindering therapeutic process and using time away from your visit. If you were to decide to allow people to be present in the room while having your visit, make sure to let your provider know as he/she may be under the assumption that the conversation is one private and may bring up or encourage you to discuss things you wouldn’t while other people are around. Also consent for treatment is between you and your provider, if someone else is present in the room and for some reason gets triggered, or any issues come up, the provider will not and should not interact or treat that person as there is not a contract or a relationship with that person.

Avoid taking your call while at work, driving, at store, party etc. This will not be appropriate, and it can interfere with the therapeutic process. It could also represent a breach in confidentiality, plus it could also be triggering for other people around when hearing your private conversation where you may be discussing traumatic events and symptoms. Driving while talking to your therapist can be extremely dangerous and your provider may refuse to continue with visit for safety reason. You can get into a car accident, be distracted, and it could also affect connectivity to the internet resulting in disconnection or bad video quality.

Lastly, being at home may also make easier for you to have access to alcohol, cigarettes and other recreational drugs. Do not use alcohol or drugs prior to your visit, as this can also significantly affect your ability to be present and engaged, and it can lead to other issues related to safety, appropriate behaviors, as well as impairing your ability to make decisions which is not good if you are discussing medication changes. Also avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, vaping, using marihuana while on the visit with your therapist, again treat it as if you were in person. However, if marihuana or smoking allow you to feel calmer or relaxed while discussing difficult topics, let your therapist know and it may be something that can be used in combination with counseling. But your therapist should be informed as it can affect their ability to properly assess your actual symptoms and response.

So now that you know more about how to improve your teletherapy/telemedicine visit, seat comfortably, have a glass of water close by, maybe your medication list, and a notebook to take notes if needed.