All About Telehealth with Dr. Katie
I am grateful for a lot these days. One thing I'm grateful for is technology. Having reliable internet, a good computer and a quiet space to work at home has never felt like such a collection of luxuries. Since the pandemic began, I have taken my practice 80-90% online. In light of these changes, I decided it would be good to tell you a little more via some Q&As you might find helpful.
How long will visits be online? Good question. I brought my practice online to reduce exposure/transmission of Coronavirus and any other pathogens. As the case count here in Utah has been rapidly increasing since the end of May, I've decided I need the case counts to be steadily decreasing for one month before I resume normal in-office appointments. As of now I am still seeing patients briefly in the office for blood draws and some procedures on a case-by-case basis.
What is the process like to schedule an appointment and what are the virtual appointments like? Scheduling an appointment is easy - visit my schedule page, pick a time that works for you and you will either have to register as a new patient or sign in with your existing patient information. The new patient paperwork is all electronic. Virtual appointments with me are done via secure video using an app called Spruce - it may be used via your smart phone or computer. When your appointment time rolls around, make sure your Spruce app open and I will call you. I find that patients feel more comfortable in their visits with me when they're able to be sitting at home in their living rooms.
What if I just HAVE to see you in person? As I said above, I'm taking things on a case-by-case basis for in-person. There are many factors to consider when it comes to health and safety here in Salt Lake at the moment. Please reach out to me if you'd like to discuss this further.
What's the most surprising thing about seeing patients online? I've found interacting with patients is easier and less formal now -- and I like it! It's great to be able to interact with patients when they're in their natural environment and so am I. I find patients are more comfortable talking about tough subjects than they may have been in the office. It also takes some of the nerves out of "going to the doctor's office".
