Concerns About Telemedicine during a Drive
Hello everyone, I'm a 28-year-old woman with a background of thyroid cancer, necessitating routine check-ups every six months. Recently, a question came to my mind regarding the professional conduct of my primary care physician. I was taken aback to learn that she participated in my telemedicine appointment while driving. I've noticed her appearing somewhat distracted during our in-person visits and at times, she forgets the medications we discuss during our reviews, but this situation felt even more inappropriate. It’s challenging for me to comprehend why I’m spending $450 post-insurance for what feels like a casual video call when it’s clear she is multitasking. Although I've been under her care for about two years, I'm eager to find a practitioner who will genuinely take the time to understand my health history and build a long-term relationship. I appreciate any insights you can offer!
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 4:50:31 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel unsettled about your telemedicine appointment experience, especially given your health history and the nature of your ongoing care. Your concerns about the physician's focus during your appointments are valid, particularly when discussing important health matters.
Main Points:
- It's concerning that your physician was driving during a telemedicine appointment, as full attention is crucial for effective care.
- Your previous experiences of distraction and memory lapses during visits raise questions about the continuity of your care.
- Seeking a healthcare provider who prioritizes patient interaction and is focused on your health can significantly enhance your experience.
Explanation:
Telemedicine is designed to provide convenient access to healthcare, but it should also maintain a standard of professionalism and patient safety. A physician's divided attention during appointments can lead to miscommunication or oversights regarding your health. When managing a history of thyroid cancer, consistent and attentive care is essential.
Feeling that your $450 investment is not being valued due to distractions can understandably lead to frustration. It’s important that you have a provider who listens and engages fully in your care, as a good patient-doctor relationship is crucial for effective health management.
Next Steps:
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Communicate Your Concerns: Consider clearly conveying your feelings about the distractions during your appointments to your physician. This can sometimes lead to improvements in your care and the practice's approach.
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Document Your Health History: Keep a detailed record of your health status and any questions you want to address during appointments. This might help ensure you cover everything important, even if the physician seems distracted.
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Evaluate Options for a New Provider: Begin researching other healthcare providers who specialize in oncology or primary care, particularly those with good reviews for patient engagement. Look for someone who can dedicate time and attention to your health.
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Use Telemedicine Wisely: If you choose to continue telemedicine, ensure you pick appointments when your provider is in a focused environment, if possible. This will help maximize the quality of your consultations.
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Consider a Consultation for Continuity of Care: If possible, schedule a half-hour consultation to discuss your entire health history and ongoing concerns with a new provider. This can help establish a stronger relationship right from the start.
Your health is important, and finding the right healthcare partner can make a significant difference. Let me know if you need additional resources or support!
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