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Telehealth Etiquette: Best practices for providers

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The use of telehealth has become an essential component of health care delivery, providing convenient access to health care. However, it’s important that proper etiquette is maintained during virtual care appointments to provide an effective level of communication and patient care. Here are some of the most important points to keep in mind.

Confirm patient identity. Use your credentials to establish trust with the patient and ensure that they are who they claim to be.

Professional appearance. Maintain a professional appearance during the virtual meeting.

Maintain eye contact. Make eye contact with the camera in order to establish rapport.

Active listening. Take the time to listen carefully to your patients' concerns and ask open-ended questions in order to obtain the necessary information from them.

Explain clearly. Discuss diagnoses, treatments and instructions in a simple, jargon-free manner.

Patient privacy. Use secure, encrypted platforms and discuss sensitive matters in private.

Technical assistance. Provide patients with assistance with technical issues or offer alternatives in case of technology failure.

Follow-up care. Arrange for follow-up appointments, prescribe medications or recommend further testing as necessary.

Telehealth offers many benefits, but in order to maintain the quality of care, health care providers need to adhere to appropriate etiquette. Providers can take advantage of virtual medical appointments by following these guidelines and ensure that care remains accessible and effective.

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