How to Prepare Kids for Telehealth Appointments

Over the years, there has been a boom in telehealth visits. These virtual appointments let healthcare professionals deliver care to the patients at the comfort of their place over the phone or computer.

When COVID-19 spread around the world, the demand for virtual healthcare is on the rise. Given that telehealth has become the norm during this uncertain time, many of you must have a telehealth appointment for yourself and has not a problem with the technology.

But your kids might not be that comfortable with telehealth. Or you can say that getting a telehealth appointment can be challenging.

Whether your kids require a telehealth appointment for mental or physical health issues, it can be overwhelming to know how to get started.

Don’t worry. Here we have outlined some key tips and tricks to prepare your child for a telehealth appointment.

Choose the Best Time of Day for the Telehealth Appointment:

Try to schedule the appointment according to the routine of your kid. For instance, don’t schedule the appointment when they are having their food, taking nap or going out to play with friends. This way, you can minimize the risk of your kids having meltdowns from being excessively hungry and tired.

Also, choose the right place for your kid’s telehealth session. You can choose a quiet, well-ventilated and distractions free place. Place the camera at the eye level for your kid.

Keep All Necessary Supplies Handy Before the Appointment:

A telehealth doctor might need you to have a few things ready during the appointment. Besides, some things are being required to keep your kid calm. Therefore, make sure to have everything in place while making the telehealth appointment.

Here are some important things to keep ready:

• A list of questions you want to ask
• Pharmacy’s information
• Medication and Supplements are taken by Your Kid
• Weight of your Child
• A thermometer
• Blanket or toy to keep your kid calm
• Flashlight for looking down the kid’s throat

Check Your Devices and Software:

An internet-enabled phone or PC is required to connect to your doctor online. Make sure you have a stable internet connection and have a quality video camera.

Or you can ask your child’s health care provider to find out what software and tools are required. Download the recommended software. Make sure to test everything before meeting the doctor online.

Complete the Forms Beforehand:

Generally, telehealth care services require you to fill out a few forms to get an appointment. For instance, you might need to provide insurance updates, since many insurers can cover virtual healthcare these days. You are also required to fill a form allowing the health care provider to treat your kid.

Get it Started with an Introduction:

If your kid is interacting with a new healthcare provider online, make sure to start with introductions. Tell your kid ahead of time that if he or she will be seeing a new doctor help him or her prepare mentally for the session. Also, introduce your kids to the doctor and vice versa. You can also encourage your kids to introduce him or her too. If your kids are nervous about meeting a new doctor, boost their morale, and allow them to practice ahead of time.

Know What to Do Next:

Understand the diagnosis, instructions, and advice during the session. Have a notepad near you to take important notes during the meeting, if required. Ask questions if you have any doubt.

Bottom Line:

Hope these tips would help you prepare your kids for their telehealth sessions. It is all about making your kids feel comfortable, keeping the essential things handy as well as getting your doubts cleared.

What do you think? Let us know by commenting below!