How can you keep patients engaged in virtual care?

2 Use reliable and user-friendly technology

Technology is the backbone of virtual care, so you need to make sure it is reliable and user-friendly for both you and your patients. You should use a secure and compliant platform that protects your patients' privacy and data, and that meets the standards and regulations of your profession and jurisdiction. You should also use a platform that is easy to access, navigate, and troubleshoot, and that offers features such as video, audio, chat, screen sharing, and file sharing. You should test your technology before each visit, and provide technical support and guidance to your patients if they encounter any issues.

3 Build rapport and trust

Building rapport and trust with your patients is essential for establishing a long-term relationship and improving outcomes, yet it can be more difficult to do in virtual care due to the absence of non-verbal cues and physical contact. However, there are still some strategies you can use to build rapport and trust, such as introducing yourself, smiling, making eye contact, listening actively and empathically, and asking open-ended questions. Additionally, validating your patients' emotions and experiences, expressing empathy and compassion, explaining your diagnosis and treatment plan while involving them in decision making, summarizing the key points and next steps, and asking for confirmation and feedback are all important elements for building rapport and trust in virtual care.

4 Provide education and support

In order to keep patients engaged and motivated in virtual care, providing education and support is key. Visual aids such as charts, diagrams, or videos can be used to explain complex concepts or demonstrate exercises. Additionally, sharing relevant and credible information like articles, blogs, podcasts, or webinars can help educate patients about their condition or treatment. Recommendations of apps, websites, or online communities for your patients to access self-help tools, track progress, or connect with others can be beneficial. Additionally, following up with patients regularly and monitoring their adherence, satisfaction, and outcomes is important. Lastly, encourage your patients to ask questions, raise concerns, or share feedback - and be sure to respond promptly and appropriately.