Approach to the telemedicine physical examination: partnering with patients

Description

Medical providers who learn physical examination techniques early in medical training can spend years honing the craft of observation, palpation and auscultation. When performed knowledgeably and well, the physical examination offers clues for diagnosis. It also offers connections with patients. However, both doctors and patients benefit from this hands‐on ritual of examination. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has threatened this connection.

To keep patients and providers safe from a potential exposure to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), a rapid shift occurred in many countries from in‐person visits to telemedicine visits. The authors examine the importance of providers acquiring and teaching the competencies required for a high quality telemedicine visit.

 

Learning Outcomes

• Explain key components of the approach.
• List main findings.
• Recognise changes in the approach to physical examinations using telemedicine.

 

Authors: Stephen W Russell and Maja K Artandi

Article Type: Medical education