Using Zoom for video clinics
When appropriate, you can attend your appointment via an online video call platform called Zoom. This is normally used for group appointments where there are multiple people present in the video clinic.
Zoom is easy, secure and free to use.
What do I need to make a Zoom video call?
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A good connection to the internet.
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A web-camera, speakers and microphone connected to your laptop, PC, tablet or mobile device.
- If you are using a laptop or home computer, you don’t need a specific application to use Zoom, you only need an internet browser (such as Google Chrome, Safari, Internet Explorer, Firefox, etc).
- If you are using a smartphone or other device, you will need to download the free Zoom app on the App Store, Google Store or other any online store where you download your apps.
- A link or meeting ID and passcode to join the video call can be found in your appointment letter.
Where do I go to attend my video appointment using Zoom?
You start your video appointment using Zoom by accessing the link in the appointment letter or visiting https://
Please enter the meeting ID, passcode and your full name when prompted.
You will then enter an online waiting area.
The clinicians are notified when you arrive, check your details and admit you to the video call when ready.
We recommend clicking on the link 10 minutes prior to the meeting, to allow for any technical difficulties you might experience.
By clicking on the link you are consenting to using Zoom to attend remote sessions and are aware of the security and privacy details stated below.
Is using Zoom secure?
For security, to join your Zoom meeting you’ll need to insert a passcode, which you will find in your appointment letter.
You are not allowed to audio/video record your Zoom meeting when there are other patients on the call (in a group call, for example). If you need information to refer to later, please let your clinical team know. This is in line with our UCLH Trust Policy.
When you join the virtual ‘waiting area’, the clinician will check your details and approve it is you before you can be admitted to the video call. They may check your identity again after you are admitted to the video call.
Zoom video and audio is protected with encryption using a one-time key for that specific group session. Zoom regularly updates their security and encryption and we will continue to update our software to ensure that we are using the highest level of security.
If you are familiar with Zoom, and are using it via the app, please upgrade it whenever a new version is available. Update requests appear as a pop up when you open your invitation to Zoom.
How much internet data will I use and how much does a video call cost?
You don’t need to pay to use Zoom. If you are using a mobile phone or other device and you are not connected to Wi-Fi, a Zoom video call will use a similar amount of data to Skype® or FaceTime®. For group Zoom meetings, the estimate is between 800 MB and 2 GB per hour.
We recommend using Zoom while your device is connected to Wi-Fi.
Zoom works better on a laptop or computer. If you must use your mobile, we recommend you still connect to a home or work Wi-Fi network to avoid using your mobile data allowance and for a better connection.
What if I have problems joining?
Please email the clinic team to let them know. Include your hospital number.
