Making the Most of Video Consultations

Video consultations have become a cornerstone of modern healthcare delivery. When done right, they can be just as effective as in-person visits for many types of medical consultations. Here are best practices for both doctors and patients.

For Patients

Before the Consultation

Test your setup — check your camera, microphone, and internet connection 10 minutes before your appointment

Find a quiet, well-lit space — good lighting helps your doctor see you clearly, and a quiet environment ensures clear communication

Prepare your questions — write down your symptoms, concerns, and questions in advance

Have your medications ready — keep your current medications nearby so you can show them to your doctor if needed

Update your health profile — ensure your medical history and current medications are up to date on the platform

During the Consultation

Be specific about symptoms — describe when they started, how severe they are, and what makes them better or worse

Show, don't just tell — if you have a visible symptom (rash, swelling), position your camera to show it clearly

Take notes — write down your doctor's recommendations, especially medication instructions

Ask for clarification — if you don't understand something, ask your doctor to explain it differently

After the Consultation

Review your prescription — and consultation notes in the app

Order medications — promptly if prescribed

Follow up — as recommended by your doctor

Rate your experience — your feedback helps improve the platform

For Doctors

Setting Up

Professional environment — use a clean, well-lit background that conveys professionalism

Reliable equipment — invest in a good webcam and microphone for clear communication

Stable internet — use a wired connection when possible for the most reliable video quality

Minimize interruptions — close unnecessary applications and silence notifications

During the Consultation

Maintain eye contact — look at the camera, not the screen, to create a sense of connection

Speak clearly — enunciate and pace your speech, as audio quality can vary

Use the chat feature — share links, instructions, or diagrams through the built-in chat

Document thoroughly — use SOAP notes to maintain comprehensive records

Manage time effectively — keep consultations focused while ensuring patients feel heard

Clinical Considerations

Assess suitability — some conditions require in-person examination; know when to recommend a physical visit

Leverage technology — use screen sharing to explain test results or show educational materials

Follow up proactively — schedule follow-up consultations for ongoing conditions

Technical Tips for Everyone

Bandwidth — video consultations work best with at least 5 Mbps upload and download speeds

Browser — use the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, or Safari for best compatibility

Mobile — the Instamedico app is optimized for mobile video consultations on both iOS and Android

Backup plan — if video fails, you can switch to voice or chat without losing your consultation

Video consultations are here to stay. By following these best practices, both doctors and patients can ensure productive, effective healthcare interactions regardless of distance.