A video appointment can resolve most follow-ups, prescription reviews, rashes, colds and mental-health check-ins — if you set it up well. Here is the exact preparation we recommend to our own patients.
Before you join
Sit facing a window or lamp so your face is lit, prop the phone rather than holding it, and join from somewhere you can speak freely. Test your microphone with a one-second voice note. Have your medication boxes beside you — names and doses matter more than descriptions.
The one sentence that helps most
Start with what worries you, plainly: “I’m afraid this chest pain could be my heart,” or “I just need to know if my son’s rash can wait.” That single sentence lets your clinician aim the whole visit at the right fear, not just the right symptom.
Show, don’t just tell
Point the camera at rashes, swelling, throat or movement. Take your temperature and blood pressure beforehand if you own the devices, and photograph skin changes in daylight — flash washes out the detail we need.
When video isn’t enough
Chest pain, breathing difficulty, severe abdominal pain, neurological symptoms and anything needing hands-on examination belong in person or urgent care. We will always say so and fast-track you — a virtual visit never delays needed care here.
After the call
Your summary, prescriptions and fit notes arrive in the patient portal the same day. Reply to the visit message within 14 days with follow-up questions at no charge.