Virtual Visits
Who will be your provider?
Miguel Suarez, FNP-C
Certified Family Nurse Practitioner in Texas, Florida, and New York. Miguel is a Cuban Medical Doctor who has dedicated over 25 years to the practice of medicine. His experience and empathetic approach have shaped him into a healthcare provider who values each patient’s needs. Beyond his clinical expertise, Miguel actively engages in continuing education, staying abreast of the latest advancements in healthcare.
What Should I Expect During the Virtual Visit
During a telemedicine visit to a family medicine clinic, the process is adapted to take place remotely, typically via video conference or phone call. Here’s what generally happens during a telemedicine visit:
- Appointment Scheduling: Similar to an in-person visit, the patient schedules an appointment with the clinic, often through an online portal or by calling the clinic.
- Check-in Process: Patients may complete the necessary paperwork or update their medical history electronically before the appointment.
- Virtual Check-in: At the scheduled time, the patient connects with the family medicine physician or a healthcare provider through a secure telemedicine platform. This could be a video conference call or a phone call, depending on the technology available and the preferences of both the patient and the provider.
- Discussion of Symptoms or Concerns: The patient discusses their reason for the visit with the physician, similar to an in-person appointment. They may describe their symptoms, provide relevant medical history, and discuss any concerns they have about their health.
- Virtual Examination: While a physical examination is not possible during a telemedicine visit, the physician may guide the patient through self-examination techniques or ask targeted questions to gather relevant information about the patient’s condition.
- Review of Medical Records or Test Results: The physician may review any available medical records, laboratory results, or imaging studies relevant to the patient’s condition.
- Diagnosis and Treatment Planning: Based on the information gathered during the telemedicine visit, the physician discusses a diagnosis with the patient and develops a treatment plan. This may include prescribing medications, recommending lifestyle changes, or providing guidance on managing the patient’s condition remotely.
- Patient Education: The physician educates the patient about their diagnosis, treatment options, and preventive measures. They may provide instructions on medication usage, self-care techniques, or lifestyle modifications to promote health and well-being.
- Follow-Up Plans: The physician may schedule a follow-up telemedicine visit to monitor the patient’s progress, adjust treatment as needed, or address any additional concerns.
- Billing and Administrative Tasks: After the telemedicine visit, any necessary billing or administrative tasks, such as processing payments or updating medical records, are typically handled electronically.
Overall, a telemedicine visit to a family medicine clinic offers patients convenient access to healthcare services from the comfort of their own homes while still allowing for comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment planning by a qualified healthcare provider.