We are all learning to navigate life from home as much as possible as a result of the coronavirus. Does this mean you should put off health care? Absolutely not! However, how you meet with your physicians and receive treatment may look different right now. In this time of COVID-19, Rio Grande Urology remains open and dedicated to serving our patients, but we’re encouraging telehealth services wherever possible.
Telemedicine is not new but has grown in awareness in this season. Thanks to ongoing technological advancements, we can provide a high level of care through telemedicine appointments via phone or web services, so you can get the answers and support you need to continue to prioritize your health. At RGU, providing safe, quality care in all forms is our utmost priority.
When Should You Make a Telemedicine Appointment?
Telemedicine appointments are best for many non-emergency appointments and for follow-up appointments. Start by contacting RGU and scheduling a call with your doctor’s staff. From there, based on your health situation, your doctor will advise you if you need to come to RGU in person.
We know many of our patients prefer in-person interactions with our physicians. Yet for the safety of all our patients and employees, and to help avoid overload in emergency care services, we encourage you to take advantage of telehealth opportunities. Plus, it saves you time, energy, and travel when you can connect with your doctor from home. And just like in-person appointments, your insurance will cover telehealth appointments in most cases.
How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Appointment
For your telemedicine appointment, make sure you have access to a smartphone, tablet, or computer with audio and visual capabilities. Our physicians will need to both hear and see you to provide the highest level of care through these appointments. Voice only visits are available but may not be appropriate for your care. If you’re unsure if you have the right technology for the appointment, please email or call us ahead of time and our staff can assist you.
After you schedule an appointment, RGU will send you a text message or an email with additional details outlining how to prepare and what to do to access your appointment from your device.
To have a successful telemedicine appointment with your physician, we recommend that you:
- Find a quiet space at home with as minimal interruptions as possible so you can focus on your appointment.
- If you are unfamiliar with video calls and have a family member or friend who can assist, invite them to join you for the visit.
- Make sure you are in a room that is well-lit, so your doctor can see you clearly.
- Write down any questions you have in advance. This way, you don’t forget any while you’re on the call.
Security and Privacy of Telemedicine Appointments
You can rest assured that all RGU telemedicine appointments adhere to the same privacy and confidentiality guidelines as an in-person appointment. All appointment sessions are secure and encrypted to protect your privacy. If you have any questions, please let us know.
In this season of uncertainty, we want you to be certain about one thing — the RGU team is here for you. Don’t put off getting the health care you need. Let our physicians help you determine the best course of action. Call us today to see if scheduling a telemedicine appointment is right for you.
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