Video consultations became an essential part of healthcare during the pandemic, but as in-person visits resume, one question lingers: When is video truly the right option?
My research indicates that while video consultations have distinct advantages in certain scenarios, they are not universally applicable. Some appointments can be effectively handled remotely, while others still require face-to-face interaction.
When Video Consultations Are Effective
Video calls can be an excellent choice when physical examinations are not necessary. Here are some situations where clinicians in my study found video consultations particularly beneficial:
✅ Follow-up Appointments – Checking in after a procedure, discussing test results, or adjusting medication can often be accomplished without a physical exam.
✅ Mental Health Support – Many patients prefer video calls as they can be more convenient and less intimidating than in-person visits, especially for therapy or counselling.
✅ Skin Conditions – Issues like rashes, wounds, or other visible concerns can sometimes be evaluated through a video call, provided the camera quality is adequate.
✅ Long-Term Condition Reviews – Patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes or asthma may only require a conversation to modify their care plan, making video a practical option.
✅ Triage and Advice – When a patient is uncertain about needing to visit in person, a brief video chat can help determine if urgent care is necessary or if self-care at home will suffice.
In these instances, video consultations can save time for both patients and clinicians, reduce travel, and enhance accessibility to care.
When Video Consultations Are Less Effective
Despite their advantages, video consultations do have notable limitations. Here are situations where they may not be the best option:
⚠️ Physical Examinations – Certain symptoms require a hands-on approach. A doctor cannot assess swelling, feel for lumps, or listen to a patient’s heart and lungs through a screen.
⚠️ Serious or Complex Cases – If a patient presents multiple concerns or vague symptoms, a video call may not yield sufficient information.
⚠️ Hearing and Speech Difficulties – Some patients struggle with communication over video, either due to hearing loss, language barriers, or cognitive conditions.
⚠️ Poor Technology Access – If a patient doesn’t have a good internet connection, a smartphone, or the confidence to use digital tools, a video consultation can become frustrating rather than helpful.
⚠️ Sensitive or Safeguarding Concerns – In cases involving domestic abuse, mental health crises, or safeguarding risks, a clinician may need to assess a patient’s environment in a way that isn’t possible over video.
Striking the Right Balance
The key takeaway from my research? Video consultations work best when they are used in the right situations—as a complement to in-person care, not a replacement. When used appropriately, they can make healthcare more flexible, efficient, and accessible.
But forcing them into situations where they don’t fit can lead to missed diagnoses, frustration, and poorer outcomes for patients.
Virtual Health Hub 