How do I prepare for my telemedicine/teletherapy visit?

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

SMART PHONE/COMPUTER/TABLET: The first and most important thing you will need, is a device that will support video communications over the internet, and 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 disconnecting call abruptly. 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.

TRY OUT THE LINK OR INVITE FOR VIDEO CALL PRIOR TO THE VISIT: 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 connecting or accessing it. This way you can let your therapist or practitioner know ahead of time, allowing them extra time to prepare and offer other forms of communication.

BE ON TIME: When doing telehealth every minute counts, as is often that you can encounter technical issues and it can take time away from your visit. Check the time of the visit, set an alarm, or ask your provider if they have reminders, it can be very helpful.

INTERNET CONNECTION: 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 Wi-Fi as is less likely to have interruptions or issues with the internet connection. Getting disconnected can result in frustration on both parts, specially if the call gets cut in the middle of discussing intimate or serious issues that you may not want to repeat over and over. Seating right next to your router, or in front of a window if using your cell phone data. Avoid basements or places where you know connection is poor.

POSITION & LIGHTING: It will be great if you have tripod for your phone or tablet so you can put them on top of 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. Good lighting improve video quality and allows your therapist to read your facial gestures, affect and reactions to the conversation.

BE APPROPRIATE: 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 for the past two years this is something that often comes 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 a shower 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.

AVOID DISTRACTIONS- PROTECT YOUR PRIVACY: 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 also be distracting for your therapist, hindering therapeutic process and even affecting the therapeutic alliance your and your therapist are trying to develop. If you were to decide that you want have someone present in the room while having your visit, make sure to let your provider know as he/she may be under the understanding 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 they get 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 individual. Also, avoid taking your call while at work, driving, at store, party etc. Having conversations while in public about trauma, depression, anxiety and other mental health related issues can be triggering for other people, which can contribute to another set of issues that your or your provider will not be able to address. Driving while talking to your therapist can be extremely dangerous and your provider may refuse to continue with visit for safety reason.

DO NOT CONSUME ALCOHOL OR OTHER SUBSTNCES: 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 or during your visit, as this can significantly affect your ability to be present and engaged, and it can lead to 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. However, some people rely on marihuana and smoking to cope, so if this is your case bring it up to your therapist to determine how to integrate it that in a way that is appropriate and do not affect the process. Your therapist must be informed as it can affect their ability to properly assess your actual symptoms and response when discussing difficult topics.

So now that you know 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.