Tech Tools for Your Pediatric Video Visit

Everything you need for your child’s next appointment.

Parents and caregivers looking to get in touch with the family doctor by video chat might ask, “how do virtual doctor visits work?” A telehealth visit involves speaking to your doctor from the comfort of your home via an online video call. This is especially helpful when it's difficult to see a doctor in their office. When it comes to effective pediatric virtual visits, the experience is better if you have the right tech tools. These health monitoring devices give doctors more exact information, so they can get a better idea of your baby's health. Whether your kid is sick or needs a routine checkup, these gadgets make children's telemedicine appointments quick and easy.

Download required smartphone apps.

The first thing you should do before your visit is to ask your pediatrician what children's virtual visit app you need. You may also find this on the medical office's website. These special apps and programs help you connect and transfer information with your doctor smoothly and securely. You should also check for apps that help you keep track of important information, such as when your child had their last vaccine or how long they've been taking certain medications.

Make sure you have an up-to-date smartphone, so you can easily download and use the app. You want your call’s image and audio to be lag-free and crystal clear, so an up-to-date cell phone or laptop may be helpful. You should also ensure that your router is in good condition and internet speed is fast enough to handle the data needs of your virtual visit.

Use items to measure temperature and blood pressure.

The doctor will likely ask about your child's basic vitals. This includes their heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, height and weight. This information gives them a more complete picture of how your child is growing and their overall health and wellness. Since the pediatric nurse can't be there in your living room to do it for you, you’ll need to gather the details yourself with the right tools.

The latest blood pressure monitors, stethoscopes and thermometers are user-friendly electronic models. Your smartphone may use an app to record this info for you, so you can send it to your physician. The doctor may also ask you to get an otoscope to look at your child's throat, ears and nose, although a flashlight will also work in a pinch. Luckily, these gadgets are a onetime purchase, so they won't add extra costs to every single visit.

Try specialized cameras.

Old-fashioned medical equipment rarely comes with cameras attached, but some new tech does. Check for otoscopes and other tools that have digital cameras that connect to your computer, so your doctor can get a precise picture to accurately diagnose and prescribe.. Check for apps that allow vitals to stream directly to your physician in real-time. You'll also need a high-quality webcam that shows a crisp image with fine details. When in doubt, ask your child's doctor for their recommendations on the best pediatric software and cameras for your virtual visits.

Provide basic measurements.

Children grow constantly, so your pediatrician will need to get current measurements for every visit, which is why it’s important to have an accurate scale for weight. A simple tape measure or wall chart will work for height. There are also digital tape measures and scales that help measure height and weight, which may prove helpful for monitoring a squirming baby's growth progress. Your doctor may require other specific measurements, so keep these tools on hand during the call.

Look into advanced equipment.

While incredibly specialized medical technology isn't necessary for most telemedicine visits, it can prove helpful in certain situations. Oximeters or ultrasound units that give a live image of someone's organs may help you gather information that helps your doctor detect any potential issues. You may also opt for a wearable baby monitor for your child. These track the daily health of your infant, including temperature, heart rate and movement. These devices tend to be more expensive than basic diagnostic tools. However, if your child has an ongoing health issue or you're concerned about abnormal behavior, they could offer invaluable peace of mind.

Take notes.

Recording important information is vital for both you and your doctor. Use a note taking app or word document to make a list of any current medications before you start the virtual visit, so you can easily send it to the doctor or quickly relay the information verbally. Record the calories and food your child eats to have that info on hand as well. As your doctor speaks during a visit, write down any advice or instructions so that you won't forget afterward. Use your phone’s calendar app to set up reminders on when to give medication. You may also want to use a voice recorder during your call, so you can listen back for precise instructions.

Telehealth appointments might not fully replace in-person visits, but they offer an alternative when a traditional appointment isn't possible. For the best outcome, get suggestions from your doctor about what is the best online doctor app and what health tools they recommend. Be prepared by getting what you need before the appointment happens. Depending on your child's needs and health history, these tools could help improve your pediatric video visit experience.

Additional information:

These statements and any information contained herein are intended for educational purposes only and are not meant to substitute for medical care or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. Carefully review product labels for instructions and important safety information and consider consulting with a health care professional regarding your use of health and wellness products.