What is telemedicine?
Telemedicine allows you to visit with specialist physicians that may be hundreds of miles away. Using video conferencing technology, a "real-time" visit with a physician anywhere in the world is possible. The specialist is supplied with your personal health information i.e. current labs, vital signs, medical history and can then visit with you about your care. The specialist will make recommendations that include new ways to improve your care.

What is video conferencing?
Video conferencing consists of a camera mounted on a TV screen both in your doctor's office and in the specialist's office hundreds of miles away. Video and audio is transmitted so that you can see and speak with your specialist about your health problems in "real time" as if the physician specialist is in the room.

Why am I receiving care via telemedicine?
There are great benefits to receiving care via telemedicine. For example, a visit with a psychiatrist would normally require a ten hour round trip to Sacramento or San Francisco. Telemedicine saves time and money for you and the clinic. You will be getting care from highly qualified specialists who work at major medical centers.

What will the visit be like?
Your first visit may take about 45 minutes; the specialist will want to get to know you. He may ask you questions about your health habits, your family and other aspects that may affect your condition. He may ask questions you have been asked in the past because he hasn't met you before. At the end of each visit your primary care physician will consult with the specialist and then meet with you to discuss any changes in your care i.e. medication changes, labs.

Will I be able to ask questions?
Yes, we invite you to ask questions. Please write down any questions you have about your condition, medication or other treatments and the specialist will take the time to answer them. Be sure to make a follow-up appointment with your primary care physician before you leave the clinic!

How can I get started?
For a telemedicine appointment you will first need to see your primary care physician at the Health Center.