How to Prepare for a Telehealth Appointment
Telehealth — also called telemedicine or a virtual visit — lets you see your doctor from the comfort of your home using a phone, tablet, or computer. Whether it's your first virtual visit or your tenth, a little preparation goes a long way toward making the most of your time with your provider.
1. Check Your Technology Ahead of Time
Don't wait until the last minute to test your setup. A day or two before your appointment:
- Make sure you have a device with a working camera, microphone, and speaker (a smartphone, tablet, or computer all work).
- Confirm you have a reliable internet or cellular connection. Wi-Fi generally works best for video visits.
- Download any required apps or software your doctor's office uses, and log in to make sure your account works.
- If your clinic offers a test call or tech check, take advantage of it.
- Charge your device fully or keep it plugged in during the visit.
2. Find a Quiet, Private Space
Your doctor needs to be able to see and hear you clearly, and your visit should be private — just like an in-person appointment.
- Choose a well-lit, quiet room where you won't be interrupted.
- Close the door if possible and minimize background noise (turn off the TV, silence other devices).
- If you're concerned about privacy on video, many platforms allow you to blur your background.
- Let household members know you'll be in an appointment so they can avoid interrupting.
3. Gather Your Medical Information
Having key information at your fingertips helps your doctor make the best decisions for your care:
- Write down a list of your current medications, including doses. If it's easier, gather all your pill bottles in one place.
- Note any recent symptoms, including when they started, how often they occur, and what makes them better or worse.
- Have your insurance card and photo ID nearby in case you need to verify your identity.
- If you track health data at home — such as blood pressure, blood sugar, or weight — have those numbers ready to share.
- Bring any recent lab results, imaging reports, or records from other doctors that your provider may not have.
4. Prepare Your Questions
Appointment time can go quickly. Writing down your questions beforehand ensures you don't forget anything important:
- List your top two or three concerns in order of priority.
- If you're experiencing a new symptom, jot down details: when it started, what it feels like, and anything that triggers it.
- Don't hesitate to ask about next steps, follow-up plans, or when you should seek in-person care.
5. Know What to Expect During the Visit
A telehealth visit follows many of the same steps as an in-person appointment:
- Your provider will confirm your identity and location, and may ask for your consent to proceed with a virtual visit.
- You'll discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns — just as you would in the office.
- Your doctor may ask you to move the camera to show a specific area (for example, a skin rash or swelling), so be prepared to adjust your device.
- At the end of the visit, your provider will review the plan, including any prescriptions, lab orders, referrals, or follow-up appointments. Write these down or ask for a summary to be sent through your patient portal.
6. After the Visit
- Review any instructions, medication changes, or follow-up plans your doctor discussed.
- Check your patient portal for visit notes, lab orders, or prescription updates.
- Schedule any recommended follow-up appointments — whether virtual or in-person.
- If you have new or worsening symptoms before your next visit, contact your doctor's office right away.
When Should You Go In Person Instead?
Telehealth is great for many types of visits, but some situations require an in-person evaluation. Contact your doctor's office or seek in-person care if you have:
- A medical emergency (call 911)
- Symptoms that need a hands-on physical exam
- A condition that requires in-office testing, procedures, or imaging
- Difficulty using the technology and no one available to help
Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Look at the camera (not the screen) when speaking — this helps create eye contact with your provider.
- Speak clearly and don't hesitate to ask your provider to repeat something if the connection is unclear.
- If the video or audio drops, don't panic. Your provider's office will have a backup plan, such as calling you by phone.
- If a family member or caregiver is joining the visit, let your provider know at the start.
A little preparation can make your telehealth visit feel just as productive as walking into the office. If you have any questions about how to connect or what to expect, call your doctor's office before your appointment — they're happy to help.