Content is loading...

Hide this page Language and accessibility

What we use for video appointments

We use Microsoft Teams for our video appointments or consultations. This is a secure and widely used video consultation system. 

We use video appointments because they:

  • save travel time and costs
  • let you attend your appointment in a familiar setting
  • are secure and confidential
  • are easy to use on most devices

Microsoft Teams is free to download and use. You do not need a Microsoft account if you select 'Join as guest'.


How you will receive your appointment

We will schedule your appointment, as usual. You will receive:

  • the date and time of your appointment
  • instructions on how to join sent by email or letter

You join the appointment using the meeting link or using the meeting ID and passcode. These will be sent to you by email or letter.

If you have questions about your appointment, please contact the specialty or department number shown on your appointment email or letter.

Preparing for your appointment

We recommend finding a quiet space where you feel comfortable discussing personal or confidential information.

For video appointments, you will need:

  • a stable internet connection
  • a device with a microphone and camera such as a smartphone, tablet or laptop
  • Microsoft Teams app (smartphone or tablet) or an internet browser like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge (for laptops and desktops)

If you cannot join the video call or your call is interrupted, the service will attempt to contact you by telephone.

Smartphone or tablet

To use Microsoft Teams on a smartphone or tablet, you must use the app. The app is free to download. You do not need a Microsoft account if you select 'Join as guest'.

We recommend downloading the Microsoft Teams app before your appointment.

Download Microsoft Teams - App Store

Download Microsoft Teams - Google Play

 

Laptop or desktop computer

On a laptop or a desktop, you can use Microsoft Teams through:

  • a web browser like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge
  • the Microsoft Teams app (recommended)

You do not need a Microsoft account if you select 'Join as guest'.

For the best experience, we recommend using the Microsoft Teams app. You do not have to use the Microsoft Teams app for your appointment. The Microsoft Teams app is free to download. You can use it on Windows and Mac. We recommend downloading the Microsoft Teams app before your appointment to prevent any delays in joining the appointment.

Download Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams guidance

If you need help, Microsoft have guidance on how to join Microsoft Teams meetings.

Join a meeting in Microsoft Teams - Microsoft Support

Join a meeting without an account in Microsoft Teams - Microsoft Support

Attending your appointment

There are 2 ways to join a video appointment:

  • Meeting link
  • Meeting ID and passcode

When you open the Microsoft Teams app or visit the meeting link online, you will be asked for permission to use the camera and microphone. Allow Microsoft Teams to access your camera and microphone. This will let your clinician see and hear you.

When you join a Microsoft Teams appointment, you will be placed in a virtual waiting area. This is also known as the lobby. While you are in the lobby, we recommend checking that your camera, microphone and speakers are working.

Your clinician will admit you into the call when they are ready. Please say hello when you join.

Using the meeting link

Steps to join a Microsoft Teams call using the meeting link:

  1. Select 'Click here to join the meeting' from your email. If you have a received a letter, type the link into an internet browser (such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge).
  2. Choose one of the following:
    • Open in the Microsoft Teams app.
    • Continue on this browser (laptop/desktop only).
  3. If asked, select 'Join as a guest.'
  4. Type your first name and select 'Join now' or 'Check in'.

Using a meeting ID and passcode

Steps to join a Microsoft Teams call using a meeting ID and passcode:

  1. Visit Join a meeting - Microsoft Teams
  2. Enter your meeting ID and passcode.
  3. Follow the on‑screen instructions to join as a guest.

Ending the appointment

Once your appointment is complete, the call will end when:

  • the clinician may end the call
  • you can select 'Hang up' or 'Leave'

Downloads

You must log in to save content

Click below to log in or create a new account

Login

You must log in to save content

Click below to log in or create a new account

Login