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Published on: Jan 14, 2023
4 minute read
By: Secondmedic Expert

The Do’s And Don’ts Of Online Doctor Consultations

Are you considering an online doctor consultation? In today's fast-paced world, virtual healthcare is becoming increasingly popular. It offers convenience and accessibility to healthcare services from the comfort of your own home. But, are you aware of the do's and don'ts when it comes to online doctor consultations? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider, ensuring a successful virtual visit. So, are you ready to explore the world of online doctor consultations, including preparation and tips for a seamless experience?

Chapter 1: Understanding Online Doctor Consultations

Online doctor consultations, also known as telemedicine or virtual medical consultations, have revolutionized the healthcare industry. They provide patients with the opportunity to connect with healthcare professionals through the internet. This is especially important when traditional in-person visits may not be feasible due to various constraints. Let's delve deeper into the world of online doctor consultations.

In the digital age, technology has made significant strides in the healthcare sector. Telemedicine, the practice of providing medical consultations remotely, has gained widespread acceptance. Patients and healthcare providers alike benefit from the convenience and accessibility it offers. Virtual doctor consultations are not only a time-saver but also a means to receive prompt medical attention when needed.

Chapter 2: The Do's of Online Doctor Consultations

In this chapter, we'll focus on the "do's" that ensure a successful online doctor consultation.

1. Research and Choose a Reputable Platform

Before scheduling your online consultation, research and select a reputable platform for virtual visits. Look for reviews, consider recommendations from friends and family, and verify the platform's compliance with healthcare regulations. Platforms like Amwell, Teladoc, and Doctor on Demand have gained recognition for their quality services.

2. Prepare Your Medical History

Collect all relevant medical records, prescriptions, and previous test results. Ensure you have them accessible during the consultation. This will help your healthcare provider make an informed diagnosis. Your medical history provides valuable context for the doctor to understand your health condition better.

3. Create a Quiet and Well-Lit Space

Choose a quiet, well-lit location for your virtual consultation. A clean, clutter-free background will help the doctor focus on your medical concerns without distractions. Good lighting ensures that the doctor can clearly see any visible symptoms or issues you wish to discuss.

4. Test Your Technology

Ensure your internet connection and device are in good working order. Test the camera, microphone, and speaker to prevent any technical hiccups during the consultation. Technical glitches can disrupt the consultation and impede effective communication.

5. Dress Appropriately

Dress as you would for an in-person doctor's visit. This helps maintain professionalism and respect during the online consultation. It also aids in establishing a sense of seriousness and credibility in the consultation process.

6. Prepare a List of Questions

Write down all the questions and concerns you want to discuss during the consultation. This will help you stay organized and ensure you don't forget anything important. A prepared list ensures that you cover all the topics you intended to discuss without missing out on crucial details.

Chapter 3: The Don'ts of Online Doctor Consultations

Avoiding common pitfalls is just as crucial as following the do's. Let's explore what not to do during your virtual medical consultation.

1. Don't Share Personal Information Unnecessarily

While you need to provide relevant medical information, avoid sharing unnecessary personal details that could compromise your privacy. Stick to the medical and health-related information needed for the consultation.

2. Don't Multitask

During the consultation, focus solely on your conversation with the healthcare provider. Avoid multitasking, as it may lead to misunderstandings or missed information. Dedicate your full attention to the doctor and the consultation process.

3. Don't Self-Diagnose

Resist the temptation to self-diagnose using the internet. Trust the expertise of your healthcare provider, who can make an accurate diagnosis based on your symptoms and medical history. Self-diagnosis can lead to misinformation and incorrect treatment choices.

4. Don't Disregard Follow-up Instructions

After the consultation, follow any instructions or prescriptions provided by your doctor diligently. Ignoring them could have serious consequences for your health. Adherence to follow-up instructions is critical to your recovery and ongoing care.

Chapter 4: Tips for a Successful Online Doctor Consultation

Now that we've covered the do's and don'ts, let's discuss some additional tips to ensure a successful virtual visit.

1. Be Honest and Open

Honesty is key. Be open about your medical history, symptoms, and concerns. This helps your doctor provide accurate guidance and treatment. The more information you provide, the better your doctor can assess your condition.

2. Actively Participate

Engage in the conversation with your healthcare provider. Ask questions, seek clarifications, and actively participate in the decision-making process. Your active participation ensures that you understand your condition and treatment options.

3. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy

In case of technical issues or medical emergencies, have contact information for your healthcare provider and a local hospital readily available. Quick access to emergency contacts can be lifesaving in critical situations.

4. Understand the Billing Process

Familiarize yourself with the billing process and insurance coverage for virtual visits to avoid any surprises. Understanding the cost and payment procedures can help you plan your healthcare budget effectively.

5. Provide Feedback

After the consultation, provide feedback about your experience. This helps the platform and healthcare provider improve their services. Your feedback can contribute to the continuous improvement of virtual healthcare services.

Chapter 5: The Future of Online Doctor Consultations

As technology continues to advance, the future of online doctor consultations looks promising. With the integration of artificial intelligence and remote monitoring devices, healthcare providers will have even more tools at their disposal to provide accurate diagnoses and treatment plans. Patients will benefit from improved accessibility and quality of care.

In conclusion, online doctor consultations are a valuable resource in today's healthcare landscape. By following the do's and don'ts, along with the tips provided in this guide, you can make the most of your virtual visits. Whether it's online doctor consultations, virtual medical consultations, or telemedicine, preparation and adherence to best practices are essential for a successful and effective healthcare experience.

So, are you ready to embark on your online doctor consultation journey with confidence? Remember the importance of research, preparation, active participation, and trust in the healthcare professionals guiding you through this digital healthcare frontier. Online doctor consultations have the potential to redefine the way we access medical care and enhance the overall healthcare experience. Embrace the future of healthcare today.

Read FAQs

A. To prepare effectively: - Choose a reputable platform. - Gather your medical history and records. - Set up a quiet, well-lit space for your consultation. - Test your technology to ensure a smooth connection. - Dress appropriately, maintaining professionalism. - Make a list of questions and concerns. These steps ensure you're ready for a successful online doctor consultation.

A. Online doctor consultations follow these steps: - Choose a reputable platform for healthcare. - Schedule an appointment with your chosen provider. - Connect via a secure video call. - Discuss your medical concerns, symptoms, and history. - Receive a diagnosis and treatment plan. - Schedule follow-up appointments as needed. It's a convenient and efficient way to access medical care from the comfort of your home.

A. To optimize your virtual visit: - Be honest and open about your condition. - Actively engage in the discussion, asking questions. - Keep emergency contacts accessible for technical issues or emergencies. - Understand the billing process and insurance coverage. - Share feedback to improve the quality of virtual healthcare services. Following these tips ensures a productive and efficient healthcare experience.

Read Blog

Liver Enzymes Test Explained – What SGPT/SGOT Mean

The liver is one of the most important organs in your body. It performs hundreds of functions, including filtering toxins, producing bile, and supporting digestion and metabolism. When your liver is under stress or not functioning properly, certain enzymes in your blood can increase. Two of the most common enzymes tested are SGPT (ALT) and SGOT (AST). In this blog, we will break down what these enzymes mean, why your doctor might suggest this test, and what the results indicate.

What is a Liver Enzymes Test?

A liver enzymes test is a type of blood test used to evaluate the health of your liver. It measures specific proteins (called enzymes) that the liver releases into your blood. When liver cells are damaged, these enzymes leak into your bloodstream. The most commonly tested liver enzymes are:

SGPT (ALT) – Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase
SGOT (AST) – Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase

Why Do Doctors Recommend a Liver Enzymes Test?

Your doctor may ask for a liver enzymes test if you show symptoms of liver problems or are at risk due to lifestyle or existing health conditions. Some common reasons include:

Fatigue or weakness
Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
Abdominal pain or swelling
Dark urine or pale stools
Alcohol consumption
Hepatitis (A, B, or C)
Obesity or fatty liver
Long-term medication usage
Diabetes or high cholesterol

What is SGPT (ALT)?

SGPT, also known as ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase), is an enzyme mainly found in the liver. It plays a role in converting proteins into energy for liver cells. When liver cells are damaged or inflamed, SGPT leaks into the bloodstream.

Normal SGPT Levels:

For men: 7 to 56 units per liter of blood
For women: 7 to 45 units per liter

What Does High SGPT Mean?

High SGPT levels may indicate:

Liver inflammation (Hepatitis)
Fatty liver disease
Alcohol-related liver damage
Liver infection or injury
Side effects of medications
Obesity-related liver stress

Sometimes, even intense physical activity or certain supplements can temporarily raise SGPT levels.

What is SGOT (AST)?

SGOT, also known as AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), is an enzyme found not just in the liver, but also in the heart, kidneys, muscles, and brain. So, while it can point to liver damage, it may also indicate problems in other organs.

Normal SGOT Levels:

For men: 8 to 48 units per liter of blood
For women: 8 to 43 units per liter

What Does High SGOT Mean?

High SGOT levels may be due to:

Liver damage or cirrhosis
Heart disease or recent heart attack
Muscle injuries
Pancreatitis
Alcohol abuse
Use of certain drugs or supplements

If both SGPT and SGOT are elevated, it’s more likely to be a liver-related issue.

SGPT vs SGOT – What's the Difference?

Feature	SGPT (ALT)	SGOT (AST)
Location	Mainly in the liver	Liver, heart, kidneys, muscles, brain
Specificity	More liver-specific	Less liver-specific
Indicates	Liver damage	Liver, heart, or muscle damage
Normal Range	7–56 U/L	8–48 U/L

Conclusion: If only SGPT is high, it's more likely to be liver-specific. If both are high, the doctor may run further tests.

Other Liver Tests Often Done Together

To get a full picture of liver health, doctors may also recommend:

ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) – Linked to bile ducts
GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) – Linked to alcohol use or bile problems
Bilirubin – Indicates liver’s ability to process waste
Albumin and Total Protein – Reflects liver's protein production
PT/INR – Measures blood clotting, another liver function

What to Do if SGPT/SGOT Are High?

If your test results show high liver enzymes, don’t panic. A one-time elevation doesn’t always mean serious disease. Here's what you should do:

1. Follow-Up Testing

Your doctor may repeat the test after a few weeks or recommend imaging (ultrasound/CT scan) to check for liver fat, fibrosis, or tumors.

2. Lifestyle Changes

Avoid alcohol completely
Maintain a healthy diet (low-fat, high-fiber)
Exercise regularly
Control blood sugar and cholesterol
Stay hydrated

3. Review Medications

Some over-the-counter drugs like paracetamol, or supplements like bodybuilding products, can raise liver enzymes.

4. Monitor Regularly

If you have a chronic condition like diabetes, high cholesterol, or obesity, make liver function tests part of your routine health checks.

When to See a Doctor Immediately

Yellow eyes or skin (jaundice)
Severe abdominal pain
Swelling in legs or abdomen
Confusion or mood changes
Dark-colored urine or light-colored stools

These signs may indicate serious liver issues and need immediate attention.

Final Thoughts

The liver is a silent warrior – it works 24/7 and rarely complains until it's seriously damaged. That’s why regular check-ups, especially liver enzyme tests, are essential for early detection and prevention.

Understanding your SGPT and SGOT levels can give you valuable insights into your liver’s health. Whether you’re dealing with symptoms, managing a chronic condition, or just doing a preventive health check, this simple blood test can help you stay one step ahead.

Call to Action

Worried about your liver health? Book a full liver function test online today and get your results from the comfort of your home. Know your SGPT and SGOT levels now – because your health can’t wait.

Liver Enzymes Test Explained – What SGPT/SGOT Mean – Book Now on SecondMedic.com!