How to Prepare for a Virtual Visit?

Have you had a virtual visit with your doctor? During COVID-19 using virtual platforms is becoming an increasingly important way for you to reach your doctor. But what exactly does it mean? And what can you expect when you have a virtual visit?

What is it?

A virtual visit is an online appointment which allows you to connect with your provider in the comfort of your home. Instead of going in-person to the clinic, you meet your provider using a secure video connection through your cell phone or computer.

Well, most providers and physicians these days have access to telemedicine. Medicare has done a good job of allowing physicians to use multiple platforms in order to reach you so as long as you have a smartphone or a computer you’ll be able to see your doctor virtually.

What can you expect when you have a virtual visit?

1. On the day of your visit, you will first be connected to an MA or a nurse.
2. They will go over a verbal consent with you to make sure you are aware of the limitations of a virtual visit as the doctor cannot do a full physical examination.
3. When you agree to proceed with the virtual visit, they will ask you about your current medications, changes to your medical and surgical history.
4. You will be placed in a virtual waiting room.
5. You will see your physician and talk about your problems.

For a virtual visit your doctor can discuss with you:

1. The symptoms that you have
2. Ways that you can manage those symptoms conservatively (i.e. without medication)
3. Put you on medications that might help you.
4. Can send orders for bloodwork or urine samples to you so you can go to a laboratory near your house to drop off your urine or get blood drawn.
5. Set you up for follow-up visit

Benefits of a virtual visit

• Great for follow-up patients who just need to check-in or get refills.
• No parking and traveling inconvenience
• No wait times
• Easy to do

What are the kinds of things you can see a urologist for virtually?

You can see urologist virtually for:

• Overactive bladder
• Urinary incontinence
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia
• Low testosterone
• Erectile dysfunction
• Blood in the urine

Contact us now to request a virtual appointment with Dr. Malik