As the world faces a global pandemic, where most jobs are done remotely, the industry of healthcare too has seen a massive shift in the way it is delivered. Long gone are the days where patients needed to come into the hospital or doctor’s office for an appointment, even when they have minor concerns. Technology has allowed for patients to receive healthcare and stay in contact with health professionals via technological devices.

It may take some time for people to adjust to this new way of living, particularly the elderly who are not familiar with smartphones and laptops and are also the cohort in greatest need of healthcare. There are many different benefits to accessing online healthcare, although just like with anything else in life, you must know exactly what to look for in order to get the best service possible. In this article, we will advise you of what qualities to look for when looking for a doctor online.

They are registered

When looking for a doctor online, it is very important that you check that they are registered with a healthcare regulator. This means that the doctor follows the required criteria and procedures to provide an appropriate service to patients, and follows strict guidelines on professional conduct. If a doctor is not registered, this may be an indicator that they do not hold the required qualifications and expertise to provide medical care or advice.

They offer video calls

Accessing online healthcare will feel very different to having a consultation with a professional face to face. Some doctors may offer the option of talking to you on the phone, although this is not the best way to build rapport with the patient and it may make it more difficult for you to explain your condition to the professional. Finding a doctor that offers the option of video conference appointments will facilitate this process as it will make you feel like you are still benefiting from the best support as you would in an office appointment.

They make you feel at ease

A doctor’s appointment can feel very awkward, particularly if your health issue is very personal and difficult to talk about. This can be even worse when you are using a device to have your appointment. Although every single doctor should always make you feel at ease when talking about issues, whether online or in person, this is particularly more important when doing it online when the experience can feel more impersonal and awkward.

They listen to you

The ability to receive online healthcare is great as it allows more patients to have appointments and significantly reduces waiting times for an appointment with the doctor. However, you are the patient and only you know how you feel. Although this should not happen, sometimes doctors may avoid giving you a face to face appointment because they assume you do not need one. If you truly believe your condition should be diagnosed face to face, the doctors should listen to you and provide you the support you require.

Appointments are readily available and easy to book

Evidently, the use of technology in the delivery of healthcare may not benefit everyone, and some may struggle more than others. The online doctor should take this into consideration so that the process of arranging a consultation with a doctor can be facilitated. Patients should not struggle to book an appointment online, otherwise, this could hinder their ability to seek medical support when needed and worsen their health condition.

They promote multi-agency work

When you have an online doctor, it can make you feel that only one professional is involved with you. Although this is acceptable in most situations, some health conditions require second-opinions or the expertise of a specialist. This is something that should be available through the online doctor. If they believe that additional support or tests are needed, they should liaise with the appropriate professionals so that this can be achieved.

They keep your information safely stored

Online doctors can access your information through their system at any time. This is highly beneficial as you will not have to constantly explain your health history or issues every time you see someone new. However, it is crucial that the doctors follow strict guidelines when it comes to storing and accessing your information online so that this is not lost. Breaches of patient data can have significant impacts on you as an individual, therefore it is important that you enquire about this when choosing an online doctor.

Accessing online healthcare can be a very awkward experience to what most people are used to. It is important that professionals make the effort to provide the best service to patients as possible. The tips above will support you to know exactly what to look for when looking for an online doctor so that you can receive the best support with your health issues.