elderly woman video calling her doctor on an ipad holding on to her medication

Tips for your telehealth appointment

by KinCare — 22 June 2020

Recent COVID-19 restrictions and technological advancements are changing the way many people consult their G.P. Thanks to telehealth, you now don’t have to see your doctor in person if you don’t want to. Your appointment can be conducted over the phone or online.

We understand that, for many people, this new way of visiting the doctor will take some getting used to. So we asked Bondi-based G.P., Dr Amandeep Hansra, to share some tips on how to make your telehealth appointment run as smoothly as possible.

It’s a good idea to check beforehand whether your G.P. will phone you or conduct the appointment video teleconference – so you can be set up, ready to go at your scheduled appointment time.

Find out how KinCare can help you or your loved ones remain at home for as long as possible and maintain your independence when you choose from our vast array of services.

If it’s via the phone, make sure you are somewhere private where you have good reception – and double check your phone is charged. Try to choose somewhere where the background noise is minimal. As consultations often run for 15 minutes or longer, you may want to put your phone on hands free.

  • It’s a good idea to have a pen handy to write things down. And try to repeat back any plans or advice the doctor gives you, to make sure you have heard and understand all the information correctly.
  • If your doctor uses video, make sure you are familiar with the platform the practice is using (Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp etc). Test everything before your appointment to make sure it works, including your sound and video.
  • We all know that from time to time, technology lets us down. That’s why it is important to make sure to keep your phone nearby, even if your appointment is online. If the video doesn’t work, the doctor will usually revert back to a phone call. And don’t be afraid to use the camera on your phone to show the doctor what they need to see, such as a wound, swollen ankle, rash etc.

If you need help, arrange your appointment for a time when a family member can be with you.

If you have any other questions or concerns about navigating your telehealth appointment, the KinCare team is here to help you. Please contact your Customer Care Manager to find out more.

There have also been some changes to rules around prescriptions and pharmacies. Your G.P. can now issue prescriptions over the phone and send an image to your pharmacist to fill in. In emergency situations, pharmacists are also now able to provide a short term supply of a range of medications, without a prescription. Please contact your pharmacist before visiting to check whether your medication qualifies.