Large-text and color-contrast options

Audience: all

Large-text and color-contrast options are important tools that help make telemedicine easier to use for people with vision challenges or reading difficulties. These features adjust the size of text and the colors on your screen to improve readability and reduce eye strain. Using large text can help you see words more clearly, while good color contrast makes it easier to distinguish text from the background. Many telemedicine platforms and devices offer settings to customize these options based on your needs. Adjusting these settings before your telemedicine visit can improve your experience and help you understand health information better. If you have trouble finding or using these features, ask for support from your healthcare provider or a trusted person. Remember, these tools are meant to support your access to care but do not replace professional medical advice or in-person visits when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden worsening of vision or new vision loss — seek emergency in-person care immediately.
• Inability to read or understand important health information despite adjustments — contact your healthcare provider for help.
• Experiencing eye pain, redness, or discharge during or after telemedicine — arrange prompt in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing health information with adjustable text size and color contrast for better readability.
• Discussing symptoms and treatment plans verbally and visually with accessible screen settings.
• Guiding patients on using accessibility features on their devices.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing or treating urgent eye conditions that require physical examination.
• Performing detailed eye tests or procedures needing specialized equipment.
• Managing emergencies related to sudden vision loss or severe eye pain.

What Are Large-Text and Color-Contrast Options?

Large-text options let you increase the size of words on your screen, making them easier to read. Color-contrast options change the colors used for text and backgrounds to make the words stand out more clearly. For example, black text on a white background or white text on a black background offers strong contrast. These features help people with low vision, color blindness, or reading difficulties.

Why Are These Options Important for Telemedicine?

Telemedicine relies on screens to share health information and communicate with your healthcare provider. If you find it hard to read small text or see colors clearly, you might miss important details. Using large-text and color-contrast settings can make your telemedicine visits easier and more effective. They reduce eye strain and help you focus on what your provider says.

How to Adjust These Settings

Most devices and telemedicine platforms have settings for text size and color contrast. You can usually find these in the accessibility or display settings on your phone, tablet, or computer. Some platforms offer built-in options during your visit. If you need help, ask a family member, friend, or your healthcare provider's office for guidance.

Tips for a Better Telemedicine Experience

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Limitations of Large-Text and Color-Contrast Options

While these options improve readability, they do not fix all vision problems. Some health information may still be hard to see or understand. If you have severe vision loss, you may need additional support or assistive technology. Telemedicine cannot replace all in-person exams, especially when detailed physical checks are needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Check your device’s accessibility settings and adjust text size and color contrast before the visit.
• Ensure your device’s software and telemedicine app are up to date.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space with minimal screen glare.
• Have your medical information and questions ready to discuss.
• Test your internet connection and device camera and microphone.
• Inform your healthcare provider ahead of time if you need additional accessibility support.

After your tele-visit

• Review any health information or instructions provided during the visit with large-text or high-contrast settings.
• Follow up with your healthcare provider if you have trouble understanding or seeing the information.
• Schedule an in-person visit if your vision symptoms worsen or do not improve.
• Keep your device’s accessibility settings adjusted for future telemedicine visits.
• Ask for printed or audio materials if needed for better understanding.

FAQs

How do I turn on large-text or color-contrast options on my device?

Most devices have accessibility settings where you can increase text size or enable high-contrast modes. For example, on smartphones, look under Settings > Accessibility. If you use a computer, check the display or accessibility options in your system preferences. Your telemedicine platform may also have its own settings during the visit.

Will using large-text and color-contrast options affect how my telemedicine provider sees me?

No. These settings only change how information appears on your screen. They do not affect the video or audio your provider receives. Using these options helps you see and understand information better during your visit.

What if I still can’t read or see the screen well during my telemedicine visit?

If you have trouble despite using accessibility options, tell your healthcare provider. They may offer alternative ways to share information, such as sending materials by mail or email, or arranging an in-person visit if needed.

Are large-text and color-contrast options helpful for people without vision problems?

Yes. Many people find larger text and good contrast easier to read and less tiring for the eyes. These options can improve comfort and focus for all users during telemedicine visits.

Can I use these options on any telemedicine platform?

Most modern platforms support device-level accessibility settings. However, the availability of built-in options varies. Check your platform’s help resources or contact support if you need assistance.

Sources

1. Accessibility and Usability in Telehealth — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Accessibility Features on Smartphones and Tablets — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Making Telemedicine Accessible for People with Disabilities — National Library of Medicine.
4. Using Accessibility Features to Improve Communication — Mayo Clinic.

This guide provides general information about large-text and color-contrast options in telemedicine. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or vision problems. In emergencies or if you experience sudden vision changes or severe symptoms, seek immediate in-person care.