The mysteries of telemedicine

Telemedicine is the telenovela of the COVID-19 era — entertaining, informative and a bit overwhelming. Since shelter-in-place and social distancing orders have made office visits difficult, doctors, hospitals and clinics have turned to video chats and phone calls for medical matters that don’t demand hands-on care.

To stay up with all the news concerning telemedicine, check out daily updates at The National Telehealth Policy Resource Center, at the Center for Connected Health Policy; go online to www. cchpca.org/resources/covid-19telehealth-coverage-policies.

Using your phone, a tablet or a computer, you can dial in directly, open an app, go to a website or use a third-party teleconference service to begin a video chat. You’ll be connected in real time to your doctor to discuss things like that rash on your arm, your sore throat, sinus infection, fever, that mole on your back or whether or not the dry cough you have is a symptom of COVID-19.

Most sessions are covered, although it’s smart to check your insurance first. If you don’t have insurance, there are companies such as MDLive that offer a session for less than $90.

If you’re going to give it a try, make sure you have prepared for the appointment and the room you’re in provides the best environment for good communication:

— The room should be welllit, so your doc can see you, and have no background noise, like a radio, TV or people talking.

— Write down your questions and have pen and paper handy.

— If you’re talking about an ongoing issue, have your pill bottles and previous test or imaging results at hand. If you track your blood pressure, glucose, at home, have records handy.

— If you’re talking with a doc who knows you and has access to your records, that’s the best situation. But whether the doc is a stranger or your longtime care provider, make an extra effort to communicate your questions and concerns.

Mehmet Oz, M.D. is host of “The Dr. Oz Show,” and Mike Roizen, M.D. is Chief Wellness Officer and Chair of Wellness Institute at Cleveland Clinic. To live your healthiest, tune into “The Dr. Oz Show” or visit www.sharecare. com.