Benefits of Telehealth

For the first decade of my journey with Crohn’s disease, I spent so much time and energy in and out of doctors offices, getting testing done, and trialing different treatment options.

I had certain clothes that I wore on appointment days, I had a bag packed with snacks and medications and entertainment, and I even started using my car rides to and from productively, listening to podcasts or audiobooks. This routine became really normal for me - seeing both specialists and my primary care physician regularly, as well as the phlebotomists in the lab and the nurses at my infusion center.

As small talk transitioned into learning my name and asking about my family, I found myself bonding with office staff and professionals over shared interests and commonalities.

In March 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic began taking over the United States, I listened hard and often to the recommendations for immunocompromised individuals, like myself. One major change for my IBD related care was the transition for all non-essential/emergent appointments to occur via telehealth rather than in person.

What is telehealth?

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) states, “telehealth is the use of telecommunications technologies to deliver health-related services and information that support patient care, administrative activities, and health education”

In 2020, telehealth (also referred to as telemedicine) is the option to speak with, and often see your provider virtually - rather than face to face. I’ve experienced both phone calls and video calls as part of telehealth services this year, and I have to say, I think the video chat is most effective.

How is telehealth different from in-person appointments?

During video (or phone) appointments, I’m still able to give my doctor an update on my health, my medication, and any new or lingering symptoms. I’m still able to ask questions and to review any long term plans we were assessing.

If we’re on a video call, I can show my doctor a bruise or a rash, but virtually, they cannot do things like palpate my abdomen to further investigate complaints. I also find that removing the commute, the waiting room, and other variables from doctors' appointments not only saves me time but energy as well.

How do I prepare for telehealth appointments?

Just like I would get ready for an in-person appointment previously, I do some preparation for my telehealth appointments in order to best use the time my physician is able to dedicate to me. Without shuffling between rooms and being caught up in meetings, my physician is also grateful for the time dedicated to telehealth appointments.

1. Prior to the appointment, I still look at my symptom logs, PRN medication use, and the overall way I’ve been feeling since our last visit.
2. I think about any medications that need refills, dosing adjustments, or if there are any concerns I have related to medication use.
3. I note any questions or concerns I have regarding my Crohn’s disease.
4. I make sure I have the dial-in phone number or link, that I’m familiar with the technology being used, and that I have a quiet space to take the call when it’s time for the appointment.

And similarly, during my telehealth appointment, I...

1. I review my notes and updates with my doctor, pausing to answer questions she asks.
2. I review my medications with her and any associated requests.
3. I ask about labs and routine monitoring - when am I due for these things, if they are essential during this time or if they can be delayed, and the safest ways to go about these things right now.

In general, I have come to really appreciate the option of telehealth, something I had not used prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and honestly, I hope it remains an option long term.

If you have any other tips for telehealth appointments, I’d love to hear them below!