Many of our local primary care providers and specialists, as well as UrgiCare and Occupational Medicine, now offer telemedicine visits (also known as "virtual visits") as an option instead of face-to-face visits. If you're feeling unwell, we encourage you to stay home, except in emergency situations or if your symptoms are worsening.
Do you have a smartphone, tablet or computer with internet access and audio capability? If the answer is yes, you can visit with your doctor electronically without leaving the comfort of your home. It's simple and convenient!
Reviewed 10/14/2022
Telehealth: Tips for a great video visit
Telehealth is a convenient way to visit with your doctor from home using your smartphone or computer.
If you haven't tried a video visit with your doctor yet, here are some tips to help you have a successful first appointment.
CHOOSE YOUR DEVICE
You can use a smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop computer for your visit. You may need to download an app for your smartphone or software for your computer. Ask what programs you'll need when you call to make the appointment.
Also ask for a contact number you can call in case there's a problem during your video visit. That way you can continue your visit over the phone, if necessary.
CHOOSE A QUIET, WELL-LIGHTED SPACE FOR YOUR VISIT
Find a private area in your house to visit with your doctor. Look for a place free of distractions and interruptions. Light should be coming from overhead or in front of you. You want to avoid glare from light behind you.
PREPARE PAPERWORK AHEAD OF TIME
Your doctor may send forms over for you to complete before the visit. They may ask for things such as:
- Your medical history.
- What medications you take.
- Your pharmacy phone number.
- Insurance information.
TAKE ANY VITAL SIGNS YOU CAN
Your doctor's office can tell you what information they need. They may ask for things like your weight, temperature and blood pressure (if you have a home monitor).
FIND OUT ABOUT INSURANCE COVERAGE
Check with your insurance provider to make sure you understand potential costs, including co-pays, ahead of the visit.
WRITE DOWN QUESTIONS BEFORE YOUR VISIT
You may be distracted by the new technology and not remember everything you wanted to ask your doctor. So write down your questions beforehand.
TEST YOUR CAMERA AND AUDIO SETTINGS
Set your camera at eye-level. Be sure your microphone is turned on and working and that your volume level is up so you can hear. Use headphones or earbuds to ensure that you hear clearly and have the privacy you need. You may also want to try having a video chat with a family member or friend a few days before your appointment to test your equipment.
PLUG IN IF POSSIBLE
If you're using a smartphone for the visit, make sure there's a strong Wi-Fi or mobile signal where you'll be sitting. If you're using a computer, consider plugging directly into the internet instead of using Wi-Fi.
Either have your device plugged in or choose a spot near a power source to ensure that you don't run out of battery in the middle of the visit.
CLOSE ALL OTHER PROGRAMS
Having unnecessary programs running on your device can lower the quality of your video chat.
TAKE OUR TELEHEALTH QUIZ
Virtual visits can be useful for a number of health concerns. Test your knowledge and find out how much you know!
Sources: AARP; American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology; American Heart Association
Don't delay routine care! Telemedicine visits are a great way to get help for non-emergency situations such as:
- Aches and pains.
- Common cold or allergies.
- Sinus problems.
- Medication management and refills.
- Follow-up visit.
- Chronic disease management.
- Mental health.
- Rash or skin problem.
- General health concern.
To virtually see your primary care provider or specialist: Please call 888.452.IRMC (4762) to schedule an appointment or change a current appointment with your doctor. Virtual visits are offered Monday through Friday. Once your virtual appointment is confirmed, you will receive a personalized link to the provider's virtual room along with your appointment time.
To virtually see an UrgiCare provider or Occupational Medicine provider: Please call 724.459.1740 to schedule an appointment. UrgiCare telemedicine visits are offered seven days a week.
Check with your insurance to see if fees apply.
Instructions for telemedicine visit:
- Go to doxy.me
- Click "Get Started - For Free!"
- Click "I'm a Patient"
- Enter your provider's custom link (given to you when you booked the appointment)
- Click "Check In"
- Enter your name and select "Check in"