How to use chat safely between visits

Audience: all

Using chat to communicate with your healthcare provider between visits can be a helpful way to ask questions, share updates, and get advice. However, it is important to use chat safely to protect your privacy and ensure you get the best care. This guide explains how to use chat wisely, what types of issues are suitable for chat, and when you should seek in-person care. It also highlights warning signs that need urgent attention and offers tips to prepare for your telemedicine visits. Remember, chat is a useful tool but not a replacement for emergency or detailed medical evaluation.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe bleeding that does not stop after applying pressure — go to the nearest emergency facility.
• Sudden weakness, confusion, or loss of consciousness — call emergency services without delay.

What telemedicine can do

• Follow-up questions about ongoing treatment.
• Mild or stable symptom updates.
• Clarifications on medications or care instructions.
• Scheduling appointments and reminders.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Medical emergencies or severe symptoms.
• Physical examinations or procedures.
• Complex diagnostic evaluations.
• Mental health crises needing urgent intervention.

Why Use Chat Between Visits?

Chat allows you to stay connected with your healthcare provider without needing an appointment. You can ask quick questions, report mild symptoms, or clarify instructions. This can save time and help you manage your health more effectively between visits.

How to Protect Your Privacy When Using Chat

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What Chat Can and Cannot Do

Chat is great for:

Chat is not suitable for:

When to Seek In-Person Care Instead of Chat

If you experience any of the following, contact emergency services or visit a healthcare facility immediately:

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visits

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After Your Telemedicine Visit

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How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your current symptoms and any changes since last visit.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns to discuss.
• Have your medication list and medical history available.
• Ensure your device is charged and connected to a secure internet.
• Find a private, quiet space for your telemedicine session.
• Test your device’s camera and microphone if using video chat.

After your tele-visit

• Review and follow any care instructions or prescriptions.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up appointments.
• Monitor your symptoms and report any worsening.
• Keep a record of your chat conversations for future reference.
• Contact your healthcare provider if new concerns arise.

FAQs

Is it safe to share personal health information over chat?

It can be safe if you use a secure platform recommended by your healthcare provider. Avoid using public Wi-Fi and never share sensitive information on unsecured or public devices.

What should I do if my symptoms get worse after a chat?

If your symptoms worsen, especially if they become severe or urgent, seek in-person medical care immediately or call emergency services.

Can I get a diagnosis through chat?

Chat is typically used for follow-up questions and minor updates. Diagnoses often require physical exams and tests, which cannot be done through chat.

How quickly can I expect a response to my chat message?

Response times vary depending on your healthcare provider’s policies. For urgent issues, do not rely on chat and seek immediate care.

Can I share photos or videos in chat to show my symptoms?

Some platforms allow sharing images or videos, which can help your provider understand your condition better. Always use secure platforms and follow your provider’s instructions.

Sources

1. MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
3. Mayo Clinic: Patient Care and Health Information — Mayo Clinic.
4. Merck Manuals: Consumer Version — Merck & Co., Inc..
5. Network of the National Library of Medicine — U.S. National Library of Medicine.

This guide provides general information about using chat safely between healthcare visits. 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 in emergencies.