Center for Telehealth and Cybermedicine Research

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is telemedicine?

Telemedicine is a live, two-way television that lets a health care provider examine you from a distance, as if you are both in the same room together.

What should I expect during the telemedicine appointment?

Your telemedicine consultation will last about as long as a regular office visit. You will see and talk to the doctor over the television. Depending on your symptoms, the telemedicine doctor may ask a nurse or other health care provider at your location to help with your physical examination. Also, special cameras or scopes may be used in order to view your ears, nose, throat or skin just as they sometimes are during an office visit.

During the telemedicine consultation, you may be able to talk and interact with the physician just as you normally would in person. You may speak in your normal voice and at your normal volume. You may notice a little bit of delay in the sound.

Can anyone see me on television?

The telemedicine system uses a special private telephone line. Only the people in the room at your consulting physician’s office can see and hear you.

What if I’m uncomfortable with the telemedicine consultation?

If you are uncomfortable with the telemedicine consultation, you may stop the consultation at any time and ask to see the doctor in person.

Is there anything special I need to know to prepare for my telemedicine appointment?

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment time to give yourself time to get used to the telemedicine system.

Who supports the telemedicine equipment?

The University of New Mexico Center for Telehealth supports the telemedicine equipment in cooperation with your local health care provider. Other telemedicine equipment is available at New Mexico Department of Health offices and other health care organizations around the state.