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.