By Deb Burrows, BS, MA, EMTP
In these uncertain times, when more people are staying home, telemedicine or telehealth has become one of the go-to methods of visiting with a provider. In the session Communicating with Your Providers: Telehealth or In-person, Edward Kuebler, MSW, moderated questions regarding virtual versus in-person visits, focusing on students.
Kuebler posed the question to panelists about the best way to prepare for a telehealth call. Jim Munn, MS, RN-BC, replied that it is important that patients dress appropriately for these visits. “Also, weigh yourself, have your treatment logs, and any questions related to school issues. Bring all the questions you want answered,” he said.
Javey Dallas, LCSW, responded by saying, “The word that I would use is ‘preparation.’ Treat the appointment just as you would as if you were visiting the clinic. I encourage my families to take notes to get the most out of the visit.”
Kuebler asked panelists for the best advice they could offer to families in between visits. Paulette Bryant, MD, said, “Please follow your HTC’s guidelines. Pay attention, take your medicine, and track your bleeds. If you are upset about something or you just need a hug, come to an in-person visit.” She added that in person is best if the patient is starting a new medication or treatment is not working. “We can do a lot through telemedicine, but sometimes you do need to come in.”
“If you are experiencing discomfort, that is something you cannot do by telemedicine,” Munn said. “Any upcoming procedures, including dental work, is something we want to know about in order to develop the best treatment plan. We also want to make sure we have all the forms for camps or school that might be needed.” Munn mentioned that during COVID-19, many patients may have had weight gain; medication doses may be different than before. “Keep us apprised of updates and don’t be afraid to contact us.”
Dallas mentioned that one of the things parents and families have been dealing with because of COVID-19 is burn out. He encouraged parents to stay involved in what their children are doing. “Make sure they are staying on task, both medically and academically. Parents need to think about the end goal. Don’t think about the sweet little child you have right now, but rather the responsible person that child will become and give them the responsibility and opportunity [to grow].”
Viewers of the session wanted to know if telehealth appointments are ever recorded. Both Munn and Bryant noted that they do not record. “If phone calls are recorded, the institution has a responsibility to let you know that ahead of time.”
Another viewer asked if there is a difference in costs between in-person visits or telemedicine.
“There is a difference in costs,” said Bryant. “If you come into a hospital, there is a facility fee. Usually, telehealth is a little less expensive.”
Dallas added that there have been a lot of changes over the last year and a half in insurance policies. “I would encourage everyone to reach out to your member services to see what is covered,” he said.
Regarding the appointment method he prefers, Dallas said he relies on watching body language. “I don’t get to see the same body language on telehealth as I do in person,” he said. He also noted that the amount of privacy may be different, as on a virtual call, someone could walk into the room at any time.
In conclusion, Bryant said that telehealth allows her to see into the family unit. “I think there is a space for both in person and telemedicine. We want to be there for you.” ■