Patients today are enjoying the freedom of seeing their doctors over their smart phone, tablet or home computer. This digital linking of physicians and patients is called telemedicine. As a spinal surgeon I am able to diagnose and treat new spinal conditions and to keep tabs on existing long-term conditions as after a spinal surgery. Yet, there is so much more to these visits. 
TELEMEDICINE CONSENT: each telemedicine visit begins with a telemedicine consent where the patient consents to: The patient is informed the patient of their rights when receiving telemedicine, including the right to stop or refuse treatment
The patient has responsibilities when receiving telemedicine treatment.
The patient is allowed to formally complain to resolve any potential ethical concerns or issues that might come up as a result of telecare.
The potential benefits, constraints, and risks (like privacy and security) of telemedicine are discussed.
In the case of technology or equipment failures during telemedicine sessions, a phone call will be placed to the patient.
The patient granted permission for this telemedicine session.
HIPAA COMPLIANCE: Telemedicine services can be convenient, but they can also provide a gateway to security and privacy issues, while accessing patient data over the Internet. HIPAA’s privacy and security rules require that the information gathered through a telemedicine service is encrypted, and you’re network connections. Additionally, when contacting patients, you have to be sure you are messaging them across a secure connection.
STATES OF SERVICE: Physicians offer telemedicine in states that they are licensed to practice medicine.
e.g. Location of patient: New York
e.g. Location of physician: New York
PHYSCIAN PREPARATION: When the patient shows up, the physician must be fully ready very much like the 7p.m news. Physicians spend significant time preparing for each visit. The history and physical examination records are reviewed, the MRIs revisited, and laboratory evaluations are brought up to date. Your physician gets fully ready for your visit and is “warmed up” with your details.
PATIENT PREPARATION: Unlike the days of old, when the patient comes to the office and waits, today’s digital visits are timely and efficient. Patients must be clear on their needs and their questions. Take great notes and be ready for your digital appointment.
Patients need to sign on and test their devices 15 to 30 minutes before a visit. Make sure that you have internet service, voice, and video all ready and turned on.
The digital connect is so strong that I am able to show patients their MRI scan and x-rays in full clarity.
Remove call blocking functions such as to restrict callers who do not provide their identifications. Physicians typically use the *67 function to hide their caller ID, since patients need to use the office and answering services portals for emergency situations. If your telemedicine portal drops, then your physician will attempt to call you by telephone.
FAMILY INVOLVEMENT: With today’s technology, family members may seamlessly link into a telemedicine conference, and participate. Please let the doctor’s office know the contact information for your family, and an invitation could be sent.
IMAGING STUDIES: It is amazing the clarity with which we can show you your MRI and X-rays over the digital medium. Patients often remark how clear they are able to see and understand their studies.
VIDEOS: Your doctor can attempt to explain a spinal condition, or a spinal surgery using standard available videos. The videos also are clear to patients on the phones, iPad or computer devices.
MEDICAL RECORD PORTALS: In modern day spine care, your medical records are housed in a patient care portal. A patient can download and discuss or fax their records. Our portal is located at: https://patients.healthquest.
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