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Wi-Fi

Learn about Wi-Fi implications with telehealth

This is a limited range wireless connection.

It’s fast when your device is within the range of your modem and when your device is physically connected to the router/modem. The strength of the connection decreases rapidly with distance from the modem and can be affected by solid walls in between the user and the modem. Wi-Fi is readily available in public places (e.g. café, airport) but security of data transmission using a public Wi-Fi is variable and poses a risk of privacy and security.

Recommendations for Wi-Fi:

  • Try to be as close to the modem as possible.
  • Ensure the modem is set up in an area where no walls can interfere with transmission to your device.
  • Do not, under any circumstance, use public Wi-Fi for conducting telehealth video consultations due to security risks.

Patient considerations:

  • Recommend that the patient try to be in the same room as their modem, or as close as they can be.
  • Ask the patient to pull the modem out if it is hidden away within a cupboard and it is affecting the quality of their consultation.
  • Do not, under any circumstance, use public Wi-Fi for conducting telehealth video consultations due to security risks from a mobile device, laptop, or tablet if they are outside the house.

Watch this video for some tips on dealing with a slow Wi-Fi connection: https://www.nbcnews.com/better/video/slow-wifi-here-s-how-to-make-it-faster-1145892419631

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