How to prepare for a virtual appointment

Video conference technology and Virtual Care can allow you to consult a Lifemark clinician from the comfort of your own home, without having to travel to a Lifemark clinic in person. But how do you prepare for a virtual appointment?

Here's what you need to know.

Find a quiet place with good lighting

Look ahead of time for a quiet room that can give you privacy during your virtual appointment so that you can discuss privately your physical condition, symptoms and medical history. Make sure there’s not too much noise around you, as that could make it more difficult for your clinician to hear you properly (or vice versa). Noise could also prevent you from being able to focus on your appointment.

Try to avoid a room that’s too dark as well, as that could make it harder for your clinician to see you and evaluate you properly.

Use headphones or earbuds

Headphones give you a better audio connection, making it easier for you to hear your clinician. Headphones can also help protect your privacy, as only you will be able to hear what your clinician is saying.

Review documentation ahead of time

Your clinic will send you documentation ahead of your appointment, including forms to fill out. Take a few minutes to review this material, as it contains all the information you need. Filling out forms also allows your clinician to review them ahead of time, helping them better prepare for your appointment.

Test your connection and equipment

Before your appointment, you’ll receive via email a link to a video conference platform. Test your access by using the link in the email. You can only join the session 15 minutes before the appointment start time.

To participate in a virtual care session, you’ll need a laptop, a smartphone (Android or iPhone) or a tablet (such as an iPad) with a camera and microphone. No software installation is required.

On desktop computers, our video conference platform is compatible with the web browsers Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. Internet Explorer, Microsoft Edge and Safari (macOS) are not supported at the moment. For phones and tablets, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox and Safari are all supported.

Prepare as you would for an in-person appointment

It’s always a good idea to come into your first session with a clinician with an idea of what you want to discuss. Before your appointment, take a few minutes to write down your goals and list any symptoms or physical issues you’d like to discuss. This can ensure you don’t forget anything important.

Keep an open mind

Some patients need an appointment or two before they start to feel fully comfortable with virtual appointments. If you’re not sure virtual appointments are right for you, try to give it a little more time. The benefits of virtual appointments will soon become evident.

Discover Virtual Care

If you’re struggling with an injury, don’t put off treatment. You can consult a Lifemark clinician remotely with Virtual Care. For more information about Virtual Care, you can check out our introduction video or this useful article.

For further guidance or to schedule a virtual appointment, contact a Lifemark clinic near you or visit lifemark.ca.