How to get the most from your telehealth consult

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Make sure you have a quiet and private space to conduct the call and ensure a reliable internet connection, using Wi-Fi where available. If not, sit in an area with very good phone reception. 

I have found that a computer or laptop will always be a better experience than a phone.

A better-quality call means we have a better-quality session. 

Before the appointment, gather any relevant medical records or test results to share with the healthcare provider. 

Please have a list of your current medications, and if your doctor has asked you to get blood tests, an ECG or complete a urine drug screen, it is important to make sure you have completed them well before your follow-up appointment.

Otherwise, it will mean a delay in diagnosis or treatment and you may have to book another appointment.

We wish it weren't the case, but most people feel nervous about speaking to a psychiatrist for the first time. 

If there are things we can do to make you feel more at ease, please tell your doctor.

Sitting still for a long time is difficult for some people, and if you need to fiddle or pace, that is ok!

We want your review to be comfortable and therapeutic, where you can feel safe to discuss complex and sometimes upsetting topics. 

We have found that having a quiet room or space is preferable rather than trying to complete the review in your car, as this will always feel rushed and superficial.

It is usually ok to have family and friends sit in on the review; in fact, we often want to speak to those who are important in your life, but please let me know if anyone else can hear our consult and introduce them at the beginning.

At times we may ask just to speak with you, or with them.

Dress as you would for an in-person appointment, even though the doctor may only see you from the waist up; it is embarrassing for us both if you are inappropriately dressed and the camera pans at the wrong moment.

Ensure you have all the necessary equipment, such as a working webcam and microphone, prior to the appointment. 

Doxy.me lets you re-test your equipment and we recommend doing this. 

We recommend a comfortable set of headphones, as it improves clarity, especially if you want to use your mobile phone.

Don't be afraid to ask questions during the appointment. 

Telehealth consultations provide an opportunity to ask questions and receive answers in real-time. I want to understand your situation as best I can, so we can work towards better outcomes for you. 

If we don’t know about it, we can’t help.