A virtual visit allows you to access care from the comfort of your own home using a mobile device or computer. A virtual visit is very similar to a regular in-person office visit.

To begin your visit, you will access a secure video link provided to you by your provider’s office. Once in the virtual waiting room, your clinician will be notified and will connect with you through the video system. You’ll be able to interact in real time, review any labs or medications and communicate just as you normally would during an in-person visit.

There is a telefacilitator in the room with the patient to ensure both the patient/family and provider have a quality experience. The facilitator does this by helping the provider with the necessary exam, ensuring that everyone can hear and see and that all questions and follow-up are managed just like with traditional appointments.

There is a video screen presenting the provider, and there may be a "picture in picture" so you can see exactly what the provider sees. In addition to the video screen, the telefacilitator may use:

• A general exam camera to magnify anything the provider wants to see up-close in high definition.

• A dermascope that allows the provider to measure areas on the skin.

• An otoscope which is used to look into the ears.

• An ophthalmoscope for looking into the eyes.

• A stethoscope that allows the provider to listen to your child's lungs, heart and stomach.

This depends on the type and complexity of care required. There are times when patients and doctors still need in-person visits. Children’s Mercy providers will guide you and your child when it is appropriate for telemedicine and when your child needs to be seen in person.

Not usually. The doctors ask patients and families for permission through a consent form if they need to save pictures or recordings.

They are very secure. Even if an unauthorized line were to connect during a session, nothing could be seen or heard due to the level of security.