Empowering Nurse Practitioners & Nurses in their telemedicine career ✦ Telemedicine Nurse Practitioner Entrepreneur ✦ Passionate for Telemedicine Innovation ✦ Google Sheet Guru ✦ Leader ✦
Do you find it harder to build strong patient relationships in telemedicine? It can feel tricky at first, but building trust with patients virtually is not only possible—it’s essential! Over the years, I’ve found a few strategies that work wonders in creating meaningful connections with patients during virtual visits. Here’s what I focus on: Clear communication: Some patients have never had a telemedicine visit, so it’s important to walk them through the process and set expectations upfront. 👉 Creating a safe space: Just like in-person visits, I always make sure to let the patient know they’re in a safe place and can relax, knowing they’re still receiving quality care, even virtually. 👉 Personalization: One of the most important aspects of telemedicine is ensuring that care is truly personalized for each patient. I take the time to ask about their preferences, lifestyle, and concerns to better understand their unique needs. Whether it's asking how their job or daily activities may impact their health or digging deeper into personal struggles that could be contributing to their medical condition, this extra level of attention helps me tailor my care specifically to them. 👉 Reviewing patient notes: I take notes on their profession, personal struggles, or anything that may impact their condition. Before each visit, I review these notes and mention them, so patients know I remember them. 👉 Eye contact and listening: During visits, I make sure to look at the camera, so patients feel I’m engaged, and actively listen to what they’re telling me. 👉 Telemedicine limitations: I always explain the limitations of telemedicine and when it’s important to seek in-person care, so patients understand where telehealth can and cannot meet their needs. 👉 Contact between visits: I make sure patients know how to reach me between visits in case they have questions or concerns, ensuring they feel supported throughout their care journey. In telemedicine, these small but impactful touches create the trust and rapport we all strive for with our patients. What strategies do you use to build trust with your telemedicine patients? I’d love to hear your tips!
