What should be included in a comprehensive assessment of patients using telehealth?

In a comprehensive assessment of patients using telehealth, it is crucial to include an assessment of patient concerns through virtual discussions. This approach allows for a thorough understanding of the patient’s current health status, which encompasses not just their medical history but also their present symptoms, worries, and any other concerns they may wish to address. Engaging the patient in meaningful dialogue helps to facilitate rapport, enhance trust, and ensure that the healthcare provider can make informed decisions based on the most accurate and current information regarding the patient's health.

Including details such as history of pets, previous diagnoses alone, or presenting exaggerated symptoms would not contribute effectively to a comprehensive assessment. Pets may not have a direct relevance to the patient's health, focusing solely on prior diagnoses lacks a holistic view of the patient's current concerns, and exaggerating symptoms can cloud the evaluation process, preventing accurate assessment and appropriate care planning. Thus, meaningful communication and understanding patient concerns through discussion is fundamental in a telehealth setting.