One often overlooked aspect of virtual consultations is eye contact. While it may seem like a simple task, maintaining eye contact during a telehealth session can significantly enhance patient engagement and communication. Here’s why it’s so important and how to make it happen.
Why Eye Contact Matters in Telehealth
When patients interact with their healthcare providers, they want to feel heard and understood. Eye contact is a powerful non-verbal cue that signals attentiveness, empathy, and trust. In a face-to-face meeting, we naturally make eye contact with the person we’re speaking to. But in a virtual setting, the dynamic changes. Without the ability to physically be present, maintaining eye contact through the camera lens is crucial to fostering the same sense of connection.
Patients are more likely to feel valued and engaged when they see their provider looking directly at them through the camera, as opposed to at the screen or their own image. It can make them feel that their concerns are being fully acknowledged.
5 Tips to Maintain Eye Contact in Telehealth Sessions
- Position Your Camera Correctly
Position your camera at eye level to replicate the natural face-to-face experience. This allows you to look directly into the camera without straining your neck or eyes, giving patients the impression that you’re maintaining eye contact. - Look at the Camera, Not the Screen
The next time you’re speaking to a patient, consciously look at the camera instead of the screen. It may feel awkward at first, but it’s worth the effort. While this may take some practice, it can make a significant difference in your patient’s perception of the interaction. - Minimize Distractions
Try to minimize distractions around your workspace so you can fully focus on the camera and your patient. A clutter-free background and an organized workspace will allow you to keep your attention on the screen and camera without being tempted to glance elsewhere. - Use the Right Software
Ensure your telehealth platform, like SecureVideo, has features that help you stay connected with your patients. SecureVideo offers high-quality video and easy-to-use features that allow you to focus on the patient rather than technical issues. The smoother the experience, the easier it will be to engage in meaningful eye contact. - Don’t Overthink It
Patients are likely not as focused on whether or not you’re looking directly at the camera. Instead, they’re more concerned about the quality of care they’re receiving. While eye contact is important, don’t worry too much if you occasionally glance at the screen to check information. The key is to strike a balance.
Use a Telehealth Platform Like SecureVideo
Looking directly into the camera during telehealth consultations is a simple yet powerful way to improve the connection with your patients. By maintaining eye contact throughout telehealth sessions, you demonstrate attentiveness, empathy, and trust, all crucial elements for building trust in the virtual healthcare environment. Next time you’re in a telehealth session, remember: Look at the camera, not the screen, it will not go unnoticed.Stay tuned for more tips in our Telehealth Tuesday series, and if you have any questions about how SecureVideo can support your telehealth practice, don’t hesitate to reach out.