Telehealth
Some items that help with a video visit...
They're nice to have, not need to have!
When doing a video visit (telehealth) from home, there are a few things that can help the providers at Heartfelt Pediatrics best assess your child.
But, they're not required!
Digital Otoscope
Yes! You can get one online or at a drug store. And they're under $30. An otoscope is the thing we look at your kiddo's eardrum with. Did you know they sell digital ones at the store now?! The thing that's great about this is that you can send the digital images directly to Heartfelt Pediatrics, and we can determine if your kiddo needs an antibiotic or not.
Thermometer
Any thermometer will do- well as long as it's not your turkey thermometer... We'll ask you how you measured the kiddo's temp, because some parts of the body are warmer than others.
Scale
Medications for kiddos are based on weight, so if we need to prescribe something, it's best to have the most accurate weight possible. If you have an infant or your toddler won't stand still on a scale, DON'T WORRY! Weigh yourself on the scale, then weigh yourself holding the kiddo. Then, subtract their weight from yours. It's best to weigh a baby naked/without a diaper, as it gives us a better picture we're they're at with gaining weight.
Examples of home-use digital otoscopes
Important Telehealth Reminders
To help us provide the best care possible, please review the following before your child's telehealth appointment:
Choose a Quiet, Private Space
Please plan to join the visit from a quiet space with minimal background noise or distractions. This helps us hear and see your child clearly and keeps the visit focused and comfortable.
Your Child Needs to Be Present
For medical and safety reasons, insurance companies require the child receiving care be present for the telehealth visit. This allows for appropriate assessment, conversation, and guidance.
Plan for Focused Time
Telehealth visits work best when caregivers can give their full attention to the appointment. If possible, please plan for siblings who are not being seen to be occupied or supported during the visit.
You Must Be in Oregon
During COVID, the government made exceptions allowing for providers to provide access to care even if the patient wasn't in their home state during the telehealth visit. Unfortunately, those rules have changed. In order for us to see your child for a phone or video visit, you must be somewhere in Oregon—but, you don't have to be inside your home! We can have a visit while you're visiting the beautiful Oregon coast.