Remote Consultations
What do you need to consider before using video consultations?
1. Choose your video conferencing software
When asking patients to attend remote consultations, it is important to choose software that is quick and easy for patients to download and access. PKB has a built in integration with Skype (the regular, personal, free version) to carry out remote consultations, but if you have a preferred video conference software, this can also be used (instructions are further down this page).
We do not recommend using Skype for Business, as this can be time consuming and complicated for patients who may not be used to using video conferencing software.
2. Inform patients that their consultation will be online
It is also important to inform patients that their consultation will be held online before the consultation takes place. There are several options of doing this including:
Messaging the patient via PKB to inform them of their appointment
Appointment letter sent digitally into PKB*
Including details in the PKB appointments section*
Appointment letter sent by post
Appointment SMS reminders
*if integration is in place to support this between organisation and PKB as part of the PKB deployment
3. Ensure both professionals and patients have access to a microphone and webcam
It is important that all parties have the necessary technology to participate in a remote consultation. If the patient or professional does not have access to a webcam or microphone, consider a telephone consultation rather than a video consultation.
4. The patient must have a PKB record before their consultation takes place
If you decide to offer a remote consultation to a patient, you should ensure that they have been invited to PKB and registered before this is offered. This is to ensure the consultation can take place on time and prevent delays to patient care.