Most of my day is spent on video, and the visits that go best usually have a few things in common. None of them take long, and all of them help me help you.
Find a quiet, private spot
Choose somewhere you can talk freely without being overheard: a bedroom, a parked car or a meeting room at work. Headphones help if there’s background noise.
Light your face
Sit facing a window or a lamp rather than with one behind you, so I can see you clearly. If I may need to look at something, like a rash or a swollen ankle, daylight helps most.
Have a few things within reach
- Your medications, or photos of their labels
- Your pharmacy’s name and address
- A thermometer, if you have one and feel unwell
- A pen, or a notes app, for anything we agree
Know when video isn’t enough
Some things need an exam in person. If that’s the case, I’ll say so and book you into one of our clinics, often the same day. And video visits are never the place for an emergency: for chest pain, trouble breathing or a serious injury, call 911.
After the visit, your notes and next steps are in the app. If something changes, or a question comes up later, send a message.
This article is general information, not medical advice. For questions about your own health, talk to your clinician.