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01

Telehealth

Telehealth (sometimes called telemedicine) refers to virtual healthcare services where patients consult with healthcare providers remotely, often via video calls or phone.

  • Advantages: Saves time, reduces travel, offers easier access to specialists, and is especially beneficial for limited mobility or those living far from clinics.

Types of Telehealth Services

  • Video Consultations: Virtual appointments with doctors or nurses (e.g., Teladoc, Doctor On Demand).

  • Phone Consultations: Quick calls to discuss symptoms or follow-ups without leaving home.

  • Remote Monitoring: Some devices track blood pressure, heart rate, or glucose levels and share results with a doctor.

Getting Started: Step-by-Step

 1.  Choose a Platform or Provider

  • Health Insurance / Medicare: Check if your insurance plan covers telehealth (many plans do).

    • Medicare Telehealth

  • Healthcare System’s Portal: Many hospital networks have their own patient portal (e.g., MyChart, Mayo Clinic app)1.3.2

 

 2.  Register or Create an Account

  1. Visit the Official Website: For instance, if using MyChart, go to your hospital’s MyChart login page.

  2. Click “Sign Up” or “Create an Account.”

  3. Provide Personal Details: Full name, date of birth, email address, medical record number (if available).

  4. Confirm Email / Phone: A verification code may be sent; enter it to activate your account.

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 3.  Set Up Your Device for Video Calls

  1. Computer: Ensure you have a working webcam, microphone, and speakers.

  2. Smartphone or Tablet: Download the relevant app (e.g., MyChart, Teladoc) from the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android).

  3. Allow Permissions: The app may request access to your camera, microphone, and notifications.

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 4.  Booking and Attending a Telehealth Appointment

  • Schedule an Appointment:

    • Online portal: Navigate to “Appointments” or “Schedule a Visit.”

    • By Phone: Call your provider and request a telehealth appointment; they’ll provide a link or instructions.

  • Check Internet Connection: Ensure Wi-Fi or a stable cellular data signal.

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 5.  Join the Appointment:

  • At the scheduled time, log in to the portal or app.

  • Click “Join” or “Start Visit.”

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 6.  Speak with Your Provider:

  • Test audio and video as prompted.

  • Discuss symptoms, ask questions, and receive advice or prescriptions.

Helpful Tips

  • Prepare Your Information: Have medication list, recent health readings, or questions ready.

  • Privacy: Choose a quiet, private space to protect your personal information.

  • Technical Support: Many telehealth websites have a “Help” or “Support” section if you encounter issues.

References

Helpful Videos

02

Managing Finances Online

Online financial tools make it easier to track expenses, pay bills, and even manage investments—all from the comfort of home. Whether it’s online banking, bill pay, or using budgeting apps, the digital route can streamline your financial life.

Types of Online Financial Services

  • Online Banking & Bill Pay: Offered by most traditional banks (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, etc.).

  • Investment Platforms: Manage or monitor retirement accounts, stocks, or mutual funds (Fidelity, Vanguard, Charles Schwab).

  • Budgeting Tools: Track income and expenses (Mint, EveryDollar, YNAB - You Need a Budget).

Getting Started: Step-by-Step

1.  Setting Up Online Banking

  1. Visit Your Bank’s Website

    • Look for “Enroll” or “Sign Up” for online banking.

  2. Enter Your Account Info

    • Bank account or debit card details, Social Security number (for identification), and email address.

  3. Create a Username & Password

    • Use a strong password (mix of letters, numbers, and symbols).

    • Enable two-factor authentication if available.

  4. Verification

    • The bank may send a code by text or email to confirm your identity.

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 2.  Navigating Online Banking

  1. Log In: Return to the bank’s homepage and click “Sign In.”

  2. Dashboard: See your accounts, balances, recent transactions.

  3. Pay Bills:

    • Look for “Bill Pay” or “Payments.”

    • Enter the biller details (e.g., electric company, phone service).

    • Schedule one-time or recurring payments.

  4. Transfer Funds: Move money between accounts or send money to family/friends if your bank supports “Zelle” or other person-to-person payment options.

  5. View Statements: Most banks let you view or download monthly e-statements as PDFs.

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 3.  Using Budgeting Tools (Example: Mint)

  1. Sign Up on Mint.com (free service by Intuit).

  2. Connect Your Accounts: Enter login details for your bank, credit cards, or loans.

  3. Automatic Categorization: Mint organizes your transactions into categories like groceries, utilities, etc.

  4. Set Budget Goals: Decide how much you want to spend per category each month.

  5. Alerts & Reminders: Receive email or app notifications when bills are due or budgets are exceeded.

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 4. Online Investment & Retirement Platforms

  1. Choose a Trusted Company: Fidelity, Vanguard, Charles Schwab, or check with your existing retirement account provider.

  2. Create an Online Profile: Use account numbers or Social Security for verification.

  3. Track Your Portfolio: See real-time updates of your retirement funds, stocks, or bonds.

  4. Consult Advisors: Many platforms offer online chat or phone-based financial advisors.

Security Best Practices

  • Strong Passwords: Avoid using birthdays or common words.

  • Two-Factor Authentication: Whenever possible, add a phone or email step for logging in.

  • Secure Devices: Install antivirus software (e.g., Norton, McAfee) and keep your operating system updated.

  • Watch for Scams: Never share your bank details or passwords via email, phone, or text. If in doubt, call your bank’s official customer service number.

References

Helpful Videos

Jokes!

  • Q: Why did the computer go to the bank online?
    A: It wanted to check its cache balance!

  • Q: What’s a website’s favorite exercise?
    A: Scrolling!

  • I tried booking a telehealth appointment online, but my computer told me it wasn’t feeling well either—it kept freezing!

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