How to prepare for a video visit about ADHD Medication Management (Child, Stable)

Audience: adult

If your child has stable ADHD and is managing their medication, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help review their progress and adjust treatment if needed. Preparing for the visit helps make the most of the time. Gather information about your child's current medication, how they are doing at school and home, and any side effects noticed. During the visit, the provider may ask about behavior, focus, sleep, and mood. They may discuss whether the medication dose is working well or if changes are needed. Video visits are convenient for routine check-ins but cannot replace in-person exams or urgent care. If your child shows serious symptoms or side effects, seek immediate medical attention. This guide helps you prepare, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do, and know when to get in-person care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has sudden difficulty breathing or chest pain — seek emergency care immediately.
• Child shows severe mood changes, such as thoughts of self-harm or aggression — contact healthcare provider urgently.
• Child experiences new or worsening seizures or fainting — get immediate medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Routine medication management discussions for stable ADHD.
• Reviewing side effects and medication effectiveness.
• Answering questions about ADHD and treatment.
• Providing guidance on behavioral strategies.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations or severe side effects requiring physical examination.
• Initial diagnosis of ADHD.
• Medication changes requiring close monitoring or physical exams.
• Assessment of complex medical or psychiatric conditions.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's behavior, attention, and any side effects from medication. They may review school reports or feedback from teachers. The visit focuses on how well the current medication is working and whether any changes are needed. You can ask questions about managing ADHD and medication.

Information to Have Ready

Prepare a list of your child's current medications, doses, and schedule. Note any side effects or changes in behavior, sleep, or appetite. Have recent school feedback or reports available if possible. Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.

How to Prepare Technically

Choose a quiet, well-lit place with a good internet connection. Test your device's camera and microphone ahead of time. Make sure you know how to use the video platform. Have your child's medication bottles nearby for reference.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has severe side effects like difficulty breathing, chest pain, or severe mood changes, seek emergency care immediately. Also, if you notice sudden worsening of symptoms or new concerning behaviors, contact a healthcare provider in person.

Benefits and Limits of Telemedicine for ADHD

Telemedicine is convenient for routine medication check-ins and discussions. It allows you to connect with providers without travel. However, it cannot replace physical exams or urgent care needs. Some assessments may require in-person visits.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List current ADHD medications with doses and timing.
• Note any side effects or behavior changes since last visit.
• Gather recent school reports or teacher feedback if available.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss.
• Test your device's camera, microphone, and internet connection.
• Find a quiet, private space for the video visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any medication changes or instructions given by the provider.
• Monitor your child's response to medication and note any side effects.
• Schedule follow-up visits as recommended.
• Contact your healthcare provider if new symptoms or concerns arise.
• Keep records of school and behavior reports to share at future visits.

FAQs

Can I get a new ADHD medication prescription through a video visit?

Often, providers can renew or adjust prescriptions during a video visit if your child is stable. However, some medications may require an in-person visit depending on local regulations and clinical judgment.

What if my child cannot sit still for the video visit?

Try to have your child in a quiet room with minimal distractions. You may assist by gently guiding them or scheduling the visit at a time when they are usually calmer. The provider may also speak with you about your child's behavior.

How do I report side effects during the video visit?

Be specific about any changes in appetite, sleep, mood, or physical symptoms. Describe when they started and how severe they are. This helps the provider decide if medication adjustments are needed.

Is telemedicine safe for managing ADHD medication?

Telemedicine is generally safe for routine ADHD medication management when your child is stable. It allows regular check-ins without travel. However, it is not a substitute for emergency care or initial diagnosis.

Sources

1. Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. ADHD: Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. ADHD in Children — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — Mayo Clinic.
5. Telemedicine: Benefits and Limitations — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has urgent or severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention from a healthcare professional.