What is a Telemedicine appointment?
Telemedicine appointments are one of the ways that we make it easy for families to get the care they need. When appropriate for the medical concern and safe to do so, HIPAA-compliant, secure telemedicine video appointments allow parents to address an urgent or ongoing medical issue with the doctor without having to travel to the office. Please be aware that your insurance may require a copay with a telemedicine visit.
How do I access my child’s telemedicine appointment?
- To access a telemedicine appointment, you will need to have the Spruce app downloaded, and create an account connected to Peak Pediatric Care. Once you have created your Spruce account, you can also access your appointment on any web browser via Spruce online.
- You will receive a notification on your phone through the Spruce app, reminding you of your appointment, 10 minutes before your appointment is scheduled to start.
If we are running behind, we will do our best to keep you updated. Should this happen, we ask for your patience so that we can give you our full attention during your telemedicine call.
- We will initiate a video call in Spruce when your appointment is ready to begin, which will ring on your phone.
Tips for a successful telemedicine appointment
- Download the Spruce app and set up an account to connect with Peak Pediatric Care well in advance of your appointment date—otherwise we will not be able to reach you.
- Have your phone nearby, and set to receive notifications.
- Find a well-lit, quiet, and private space that will be available for the duration of your appointment. This will help us to hear each other easily, and give you privacy to speak freely and clearly about medical concerns. The secure Spruce app is HIPAA compliant and will guard the personal medical information you share.
- Make sure that you have a strong internet connection. If we have trouble communicating due to a poor connection, we may need to reschedule your appointment.
- Have your child with you and ready to participate at the scheduled time. Prepare them by making sure they know what the appointment will cover, so that it is not a surprise to meet with the doctor.
- Be ready with:
- your child’s most recent weight
- a list of current medications
- a summary of the current problem
- a list of questions you want to ask
