Telehealth Technology: What Tools And Apps Do You Need?

Telehealth is the future of health care. The convenience of having a doctor on your speed dial, ready to diagnose, and provide treatment procedures without going to a clinic is life-changing. However, to make the most out of your telehealth the patient should have access to proper equipment and technology. Whether it is a routine checkup or monitoring a chronic condition, telehealth can be more beneficial, with proper technology available to aid in the procedures.

In this blog, we will discuss some of the most basic yet essential pieces of technology and software that you should be well acquainted with before your next telehealth appointment.

Table of Contents

Reliable Internet Connection

One of the most obvious factors that affects your telehealth service quality is the WIFI speed. A stable internet connection ensures that there is no lag and that the call goes smoothly. If the video freezes, or audio breaks off it can hinder the quality of healthcare you receive. The doctors may be unable to make a proper diagnosis. To avoid this, it is recommended to have a minimum WIFI speed of 10 Mbps or more.

Device Compatibility

The other most obvious technological requirement to get the most out of telehealth is having a compatible device. A compatible device should support WIFI, and have a good quality screen, microphone, and speakers. Any modern smartphone or tablet should do. A laptop or computer is also good since it has a large screen to view and navigate through the controls of an online meeting. Speakers should be good, if your devices do not have good speakers, get an external Bluetooth one. It is important to be able to understand your doctor’s words, and recommendations.

Similarly invest in a good microphone if your desktop does not have one. The doctor has to be able to hear you describe your symptoms in the best way possible and that can help him give you a correct diagnosis.

When deciding to choose a device, keep portability in mind as well. Laptops and desktops are less portable when it comes to smartphones so if you cannot carry much weight with you, your smartphone will be enough.

Telehealth Platforms and Apps

Most telehealth care providers work from specific platforms, websites, and apps to contact patients. People in Florida will be most interested in online telemedicine company in Florida. Hence for you to have access to your local telehealth service provider it is essential to be aware of your local platforms.

It may seem unnecessary to have a local telemedicine company administer your health, but it has its benefits. Your local telemedicine company can also adjust for physical appointments when deemed necessary. They can give prescriptions for medicine that is more readily available in your area. They can also get the medicine delivered to your doorsteps by having connections with local pharmacies.

So, before your very first telehealth appointment make an account and provide any details asked in creating the profile. This will be used to create an electronic medical history that you can have access to at all times. This profile system stores data for all previous diagnoses, medications prescribed, and treatments done.

Also, download and learn the basics of any communication app or software that your doctor prefers. The most common are Zoom, and Google Meet for video calling. WhatsApp leads in online messaging and photo sharing. This will help begin the consultation in time, and you won’t be left scrambling to find the unmute button.

Remote Monitoring Devices

In cases of chronic diseases like diabetes, a remote monitoring device can be used to monitor blood glucose and have updated data on your phone at all times. These readings can be beneficial for doctors to understand the effects of the prescribed medication.

Patients with blood pressure issues can use a real-time blood pressure monitor which can be monitored by doctors without actually being present. This can help in informing about emergencies, even when a real-time caretaker might not be available.

Other wearables like fitness trackers and smartwatches can be useful in keeping track of fitness information and sharing it with your doctor if they recommend a change in your lifestyle. Devices like Fitbits and Apple watches can monitor your heart rate, and sleep patterns, which is useful information for your doctor to know.

Final Touches Before Your Appointment

Before your virtual checkup make sure that you are in a telehealth-friendly environment. Make sure to have the device and camera positioned at an appropriate angle. Moreover, have appropriate lighting so that the doctor can see any visual information clearly

If the virtual visit is for a senior citizen it is important to have the primary caretaker there to help in any way. Make sure to sit in an area of the house where unnecessary distractions won’t occur. Children walking in or even noise interference can hurt the experience and the healthcare delivered.

Have a technical check before the appointment and in any case of problems faced get help, or reschedule beforehand. Also having your previous medical records is important since telehealth is still relatively new and most of your records are going to exist in physical forms.

Conclusion

To conclude, Telehealth can have some technological barriers, however, they are not impossible to overcome. The technological learning curve is not that steep and after a few sessions, it becomes natural. Not all conditions can be treated through telehealth, but for those who can it is a good practice to take full benefit of this service.

Be on time for your appointments, actively participate in the conversation with your doctor, share any medical records, and data from monitoring devices, and understand where the prescription appears in your portal. Having the right technology can help take your experience to the next level and helps assure that you get the health care you deserve.