How Does Telemedicine Work? A Patient’s Guide
- Dr. Joshua Lamers
- Jul 31
- 4 min read
Telemedicine is transforming how people access healthcare—making it faster, easier, and more convenient than ever. But if you’ve never had a virtual visit before, it’s completely normal to have questions. Harmony Health Clinic's telemedicine appointments are for Florida residents who need everything from primary care checkups to functional medicine follow-ups.
What is telemedicine, exactly?
Telemedicine is healthcare delivered through technology—usually via secure video chat or phone call. Instead of driving to a clinic, you can meet with your provider from your home, office, or anywhere you have a reliable internet connection. We use HIPAA-compliant video platforms to ensure your information stays private and protected. Think of it like a house call, updated for the digital age.
What types of issues can be addressed during a telemedicine visit?
Telemedicine is a great option for:
Routine follow-ups
Reviewing lab or imaging results
Prescription refills or adjustments
Cold, flu, allergy, or sinus symptoms
Digestive complaints (like IBS, heartburn, or bloating)
Skin rashes or minor infections
Functional medicine consults (especially lifestyle and supplement plans)
Weight loss check-ins
Hormone therapy monitoring
While hands-on issues (like joint manipulation or chiropractic care) still require in-person treatment, many concerns can be managed virtually.
How do I schedule a telemedicine appointment at Harmony Health Clinic?
It’s simple:
Book an appointment- You can call us, email us, or book an appointment from our booking page.
Check your email- We will send you an email with the link to join our online video/audio call.
Join the video call- use your phone, tablet, or computer at your scheduled time.
If you ever have trouble with tech, we’re here to help walk you through it.
What technology do I need for a virtual appointment?
You don’t need anything fancy—just:
A smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone
A reliable internet connection (Wi-Fi is best)
A quiet, well-lit space for your appointment
The meeting link or access code (sent via email or text)
You don’t need to download an app in most cases—we’ll send a simple link that opens in your browser.
What should I do to prepare before my telehealth visit?
Here’s a quick checklist to help you feel confident:
✅ Test your device: Make sure your camera and microphone are working.
✅ Find a quiet spot: Choose a private, distraction-free area.
✅ Gather any notes or medications: Jot down questions or symptoms you want to discuss.
✅ Log in a few minutes early: Just in case your device needs an update or restart.
Bonus tip: If your visit involves going over labs or supplements, keep a copy of your results or bottles nearby.
Is my information secure during a virtual appointment?
Yes. At Harmony Health, we take patient privacy seriously. Our video visits are encrypted and HIPAA-compliant—meaning your medical information stays between you and your provider. We never record or store telehealth sessions, and we use secure platforms to protect your data.
What happens during the appointment?
Just like an in-person visit, your provider will:
Greet you and confirm your information
Ask about your symptoms, goals, or concerns
Review test results, treatment plans, or supplements
Provide education, support, or guidance
Send prescriptions or order labs, if needed
You’ll have plenty of time to ask questions and get personalized advice—without the waiting room.
Can I get prescriptions or lab orders from a telehealth visit?
Absolutely. If your condition warrants it, your provider can:
Send prescriptions electronically to your preferred pharmacy
Order labs or imaging tests, which you can complete at a nearby location
Review or adjust supplement plans for functional medicine care
Provide referrals to specialists, if needed
Note: For certain controlled substances, Florida law may require an in-person visit first. We’ll let you know if that applies to your case.
How do follow-ups and ongoing care work through telemedicine?
Many of our patients alternate between in-person and virtual visits. For example:
A first visit might be in-person for a physical exam
A follow-up to review labs or tweak your plan might be virtual
Ongoing check-ins for weight loss, fatigue, or hormonal support can be done from anywhere
We’ll work with your preferences and schedule to create a plan that works for you.
Can new patients use telemedicine, or is it just for existing patients?
New patients are welcome! Depending on your reason for scheduling, we may recommend your first visit be in-person—especially if it involves a physical exam. For issues like digestive complaints, hormone concerns, or chronic fatigue, we often start with virtual consultations and schedule in-person testing as needed.
Why do Naples residents love telehealth at Harmony Health Clinic?
People in Naples are busy—and value their time, privacy, and convenience. Telemedicine lets you:
Skip traffic and waiting rooms
Stay on track with your health goals
Get personalized support without disrupting your routine
Access functional medicine expertise—even when traveling
Whether you’re a snowbird, a working professional, or a year-round resident, telemedicine makes it easier to get the care you deserve.
Ready to book your virtual visit?
Your health shouldn’t wait for the perfect schedule. Telemedicine is a safe, easy, and secure way to stay connected to your provider—no matter where you are.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare professional.
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