Rules for online consultations for doctors
Preparing for counselling:
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Make sure your work area is quiet, well-lit and equipped with the necessary video communication equipment.
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Check the stability of your internet connection, as well as the sound and video quality.
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Familiarise yourself with the patient's medical history, if available, and prepare the necessary documents and materials to avoid wasting time gathering information during the consultation.
Privacy and Security:
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Ensure confidentiality: hold the counselling session in a room where no one can hear the conversation.
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Comply with the principles of GDPR and other personal data protection laws.
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Do not allow the consultation to be recorded without the patient's consent.
Communication and etiquette:
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Start by greeting and introducing yourself, switch on the camera and maintain eye contact.
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Explain to the patient how the counselling will take place, give instructions on how to formulate complaints so that you can get comprehensive answers.
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If there are any technical problems, agree on a way to continue (call back or reschedule).
Plan and structure of the consultation:
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Clearly state the goals of the consultation and take time to address each important aspect of the patient's problem.
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If necessary, make recommendations for further tests and investigations.
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Advise about possible limitations of online consultations, especially if a face-to-face examination is required.
Documentation and Recommendations:
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Keep medical records, recording details of the consultation and recommendations made.
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At the end of the consultation, send recommendations and instructions to the patient to carry out prescribed tests or treatment.
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Recommend follow-up consultations, if necessary, to monitor progress.