What to expect from a telemedicine consultation for COVID-19

The clinician may ask when symptoms began, whether they are changing, and whether you have fever, cough, sore throat, tiredness, body aches, vomiting, or diarrhoea. They may ask about breathing, medical conditions, pregnancy, age, medicines, and previous vaccination. Have your temperature and oxygen reading available if you have suitable equipment, but do not delay help because you cannot measure them. The clinician can discuss testing, isolation precautions, fluids, rest, and symptom relief. A remote assessment cannot fully examine your lungs or measure every vital sign, so the plan may include a clinic visit.

Before the call, write down your symptoms, their onset, recent test results, medicines, allergies, and relevant health conditions. Keep your phone charged and choose a quiet place with good lighting. During the consultation, describe breathlessness in practical terms, such as whether you can walk across a room or speak in full sentences. Follow the agreed monitoring plan and keep contact details for follow-up. Do not start prescription treatment left over from an earlier illness; ask what is appropriate for you.

Seek urgent in-person help for severe or worsening difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, new confusion, fainting, inability to stay awake, severe chest pain, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine. Contact the service promptly if fever persists, symptoms worsen, or your home oxygen reading is lower than the clinician advised. If you feel seriously unwell, use emergency services rather than waiting for another video call.

Ask: What symptoms should I record? How often should I check my temperature or oxygen level? Which medicines are suitable with my current prescriptions? When should I have a physical examination? Who should I contact if I deteriorate?