What Is a Telehealth Visit Like?

A telehealth visit is similar to a face-to-face office visit with your doctor, but via secure video from the comfort of your home or other convenient location. As with any visit, your doctor will be there to review your child’s symptoms, answer questions, review concerns, and discuss next steps.

Commonly Asked Questions

What technology do I need for a telehealth visit?

  • You can have a virtual visit on any smartphone or tablet, including an iPhone, Android, or iPad. You can also use a laptop or any desktop computer that has internet, a camera, and a speaker/microphone.
  • You MUST use MyChart for this visit. For children, 12 years of age and younger, you can use a proxy account.  For teens and young adults, you MUST use their own MyChart account.
  • PLEASE NOTE: when using a smartphone or tablet, you CANNOT access MyChart via an internet browser.  You must use the MyChart app.
  • It might be helpful to have the MyChart app downloaded on two devices in case you need a backup for your visit.
  • No matter what device you are using, you will need to go through PRE-VISIT questions and then click "BEGIN VISIT". Once you are connected with the doctor, you will need to "JOIN AUDIO" in order to activate you microphone.
  • Here is a tip sheet on how to set up MyChart on your smartphone

How do I prepare for the visit?

  • Choose a quiet space that is free from distractions, ideally a room with carpet to minimize echo.
  • Set your camera so it’s at eye level for a full view of your face. If you’re using a phone or tablet, lean it against something so you don’t have to hold it.
  • Adjust your lighting and close any blinds. Try to make sure there is no light or window directly behind the camera to avoid glare.
  • During your visit, your provider may need to examine your child. Be prepared to adjust your camera and be prepared to follow your provider’s instructions.
  • Have any materials you need ready before your visit.
  • If at all possible weigh your child before the visit, and if the visit is a medication follow up, please try to measure his/her height as well.
  • Make a list of any questions you have for your provider.
  • Gather all of your child’s medications so you have them available.
  • Download MyChart app in advance and carefully read through all instructions.
  • Please be on time for your visit. We recommend you log on 15 minutes before your visit, and wait in the virtual waiting room for your provider. This will give you time to complete Pre-Visit validation and any appropriate questionnaires.

How do I prepare my child for the visit?

For young children (infant, toddler, or younger preschooler), it may be helpful to:

  • Have another parent, older child, or caregiver nearby so they can help hold the camera. This may be especially helpful if you need to hold your child in a certain way so their provider can get the best view during the exam.
  • Keep toys, books, and perhaps a bottle or sippy cup handy to help soothe and engage your child throughout the visit.

For older school-age children, it may be helpful to sit next to them during the visit so the provider can talk to you both during the visit

For teenagers, your provider may ask them to do part of the call on their own, for their privacy — just as they would for an in-person visit.

 

*Adapted from Boston Children’s Hospital: What you need to know about your virtual visit

Telehealth User Guide and Frequently Asked Questions