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

Audience: pediatric

If your child has stable ADHD and is managing medication, a video visit with your healthcare provider can help keep track of progress and adjust treatment if needed. This guide explains how to prepare for the visit to make the most of your time. You'll learn what information to have ready, how to discuss your child's symptoms and side effects, and what questions to ask. Video visits can be a convenient way to stay connected with your child's care team, especially when in-person visits are not easy. However, some issues may still require an in-person visit. Always watch for warning signs that need urgent attention. This guide does not replace professional medical advice but helps you get ready for your telemedicine appointment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden severe mood changes or suicidal thoughts — seek emergency care immediately.
• Signs of allergic reaction to medication such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing — call emergency services.
• Significant worsening of attention, behavior, or physical health that interferes with daily life — contact your healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Reviewing stable medication plans and dosages.
• Discussing side effects and symptom changes.
• Providing guidance on medication management and behavioral strategies.
• Answering questions about ADHD and treatment.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or diagnostic tests.
• Managing urgent or severe side effects needing immediate care.
• Initiating controlled substance prescriptions without prior in-person evaluation.
• Assessing new or complex medical conditions requiring hands-on evaluation.

What to Have Ready for the Video Visit

Before the video visit, gather important information about your child's health. This includes a list of current medications and doses, notes on any side effects or changes in behavior, and recent school or home observations about attention and activity. Have a quiet, well-lit place for the visit where you can talk openly without distractions.

How to Talk About Your Child's Symptoms and Medication

During the visit, describe how your child has been feeling and behaving since the last appointment. Share any concerns about medication effects, such as sleep problems, appetite changes, or mood swings. Be honest and specific to help the provider understand your child's needs.

Questions You May Want to Ask

Prepare questions ahead of time. Examples include:

When a Video Visit May Not Be Enough

Some situations may require an in-person visit, such as:

Your provider will guide you if an in-person visit is needed.

Tips for a Successful Video Visit

Test your device and internet connection before the appointment. Have your child's medication bottles and any recent reports handy. Make sure your child is comfortable and knows what to expect. Write down notes during the visit to remember important points.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List all current medications with doses and schedules.
• Note any side effects or changes in your child's behavior.
• Prepare recent observations from home and school.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space with a reliable internet connection.
• Test your device's camera and microphone before the visit.
• Write down questions or concerns to discuss.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any medication adjustments or advice given during the visit.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and side effects closely.
• Schedule follow-up visits as recommended by your provider.
• Contact your healthcare provider if new or worsening symptoms occur.
• Keep a record of your child's progress to share at future visits.

FAQs

Can I start new ADHD medication during a video visit?

Starting new ADHD medications often requires an in-person evaluation to ensure safety and proper monitoring. Your provider will advise if this is possible via telemedicine based on your child's situation.

What if my child has side effects from medication?

Tell your provider about any side effects during the video visit. They can help adjust the medication or suggest ways to manage side effects. If side effects are severe, seek urgent care.

How often should my child have follow-up visits?

Follow-up visits typically happen every few months to monitor medication effectiveness and side effects. Your provider will recommend the best schedule for your child.

Can behavioral therapy be discussed during a video visit?

Yes, your provider can discuss behavioral therapy options and supports during the video visit and may refer you to specialists or programs.

What if the video connection is poor during the visit?

If the video or audio quality is poor, try to reconnect or switch to a phone call. Inform your provider if technical issues make communication difficult.

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. Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. ADHD Medication: What Parents Need to Know — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. Always seek direct evaluation by a healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, and emergencies.