Meeting with your doctor via computer screen is just one of the many practices born out of the COVID-19 pandemic—and it won’t be going away anytime soon. Virtual visits are here to stay, and UC Health can help you make the most of virtual time spent with your provider.
Just a few providers offered virtual visits before the pandemic, however, most providers – physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants – offer this convenient appointment option to patients. In fact, nearly every medical department at all UC Health locations provides telehealth visits.
Lydia Morton, telehealth operations manager for UC Health, shares the best tips and tricks to help technology work for you.
What are the positive aspects of virtual visits?
Virtual visits allow flexibility. If you have just had an in-person exam and need to follow up with your doctor a week later, virtual visits are the perfect option. They save time because it eliminates the need to drive to the doctor’s office. Virtual visits also work well if you simply need to be given test results, do a quick follow up or ask a question. It’s an option that will require much less time.
What should you expect during the visit?
The process is the same as at your doctor’s office, where a medical assistant and a patient service representative first check the patient in and ask preliminary questions. Next, they notify the doctor that the patient is ready. The provider will meet with the patient via screen and answer any questions they may have.
What should you do to prepare for a virtual visit?
All virtual visits are conducted through MyChart. Patients should log in the day before their appointment to test and ensure that everything is working correctly. This includes checking your internet connection, confirming that the audio works and testing the video. Checking these prompts ahead of time makes the visit go more smoothly. If you are experiencing technical issues, call the My UC Health Help Desk at 513-585-5353. Our technicians will explain the entire process.
How do you access MyChart?
When patients call to schedule an appointment with a provider, UC Health schedulers are able to view in the chart if you have an active MyChart account. If you do not have a MyChart account, our representatives will walk you through the registration process. They will tell you how to download the app, set up your username and provide you with a temporary password. Once you are logged in, you will be asked to reset with your preferred password.
What if you are still having problems connecting?
Patients should call their provider’s office to inform them that they are having issues with the e-check in process. The medical assistant or patient service representative will send a link directly to the patient’s cell phone. The patient simply clicks on the link and they will automatically be directed into the virtual appointment.
How do virtual visits improve the relationship between the patient and their provider?
Providers are able to help patients from a much larger geographic area because the patient does not have to travel to the physician’s office. Patients are also able to touch base with their providers through “My UC Health” by sending them a message to ask a question or obtain medical advice. There is an added convenience for both the provider and the patient.
Steps for a successful video visit:
- Download the My UC Health app or visit my.uchealth.com.
- Click on “Sign Up Now,” complete the online form, and click “Submit.”
- Test internet, audio and video connections the day before your appointment.
- Call a UC Health technician at 513-585-5353 to help with any problems. You may also call 513-475-800 with any other questions.
- Talk to your provider from the private comfort of your home or office.