Hand therapy video appointment preparation

This leaflet is for patients who are under the care of the Hand Therapy team at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and who have been offered a new or follow-up video appointment.

Here are a few simple steps that we recommend to ensure that you get the most out of your Hand Therapy video appointment.

About the video appointment

How will my video appointment be booked?

A new video appointment will be arranged with you either by telephone, or sent in the post or by Mychart (opens in a new tab), and can be followed up with an email confirming the date, time and link to access the video call. A follow-up video appointment will be arranged during your initial appointment. These too can be followed up with a confirmation email if needed.

How do I access the video appointment?

The same video link, https://nhs.vc/cuh_ot-hand, is used for every appointment. This link takes you to the hand therapy virtual waiting room. Please see the Attend Anywhere information leaflet for details of privacy, Internet data usage and a step-by-step guide to accessing the video appointment.:

Once you have opened the link, you will be guided through the process to access your appointment.

How long does the appointment take?

You should allow 10 to 20 minutes before the call to test that your equipment is working. Please test both your camera and speakers prior to the appointment. Please also ensure the device you are using is fully charged, or that charging equipment is close by.

Your appointment with a therapist should take no longer than one hour.

How do I position my device for example laptop, tablet, computer, or phone?

Please try to find something stable on which your device can be positioned securely. Ensure you are positioned at the correct height so that the therapist can see your face and your hand/arm. We suggest positioning yourself at an arm’s length distance away from your device.

A flat surface, such as a table or armrest, may be comfortable to rest your hand on.

What will I need during the appointment?

Please ensure you have any therapy items, such as a splint or exercise tools, with you during your appointment.

Does it matter where I am during the call?

It is best to stay in one place during the call. Please ensure you have good lighting so that the therapist can see you clearly, and ensure minimal background noise.

May a relative/ friend/ carer be present during the appointment?

If you feel you would benefit from support during your call, then having a friend, carer or family member with you may be helpful. Please let your therapist know if they are in the background of the appointment.

Will I need to take notes?

Not unless you feel you need to. After your appointment, your therapist can provide you with a summary, along with any important information for example exercises and the date/ time of your next appointment. This information can be sent via email or post. The call is not recorded by us, and if you wish to take any recordings during the call please discuss with the therapist first.

I am under 16 years, may I attend on my own?

No, if you are under the age of 16 years then you must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during your appointment. If not, the appointment will not be allowed to continue.

What do I do if I am feeling unwell?

If you are feeling too unwell for the video call, please let your therapist know as soon as possible so that your appointment can be rearranged.

If your injury has made you feel faint/ queasy in the past, please be seated on a sofa or a bed, have a cold drink with you and have someone present during the appointment.

Contacts/ Further information

Occupational Therapy/ Hand Therapy Department 01223 216769