Glossary > Healthcare > Telehealth Services > General

Video Visit

A video visit in healthcare refers to a virtual consultation between a patient and a healthcare provider conducted over a secure video platform, allowing for remote communication and diagnosis.

Example #1

For instance, a patient with a minor illness like a cold can have a video visit with a doctor instead of going to a clinic in person. The doctor can assess the symptoms, provide advice, and prescribe medication if necessary.

Example #2

Another example is a follow-up appointment with a specialist where the patient can discuss test results and treatment options through a video visit without traveling to a distant healthcare facility.

Misuse

Misuse of video visits can occur if unscrupulous individuals pose as healthcare providers on illegitimate platforms, leading to incorrect diagnoses, inappropriate treatment recommendations, and potential breach of patient data. It is crucial to verify the credibility and legitimacy of the telehealth platform and the healthcare provider before engaging in a video visit.

Benefits

The primary benefit of video visits is increased accessibility to healthcare services, especially for individuals in remote areas or those with mobility constraints. For example, elderly patients who have difficulty traveling to medical appointments can benefit greatly from the convenience of video visits, ensuring they receive necessary care without added physical strain.

Conclusion

Ensuring the legitimacy of telehealth platforms and providers is vital to safeguarding patient health and personal information during video visits. Embracing video visits can enhance healthcare access and convenience, particularly for vulnerable populations or those with limited mobility.