Introduction to Telehealth

Telehealth means getting healthcare without being in the same room as your healthcare professional. It can happen by video, by phone, or through secure messages in a patient portal. For people who live far from a clinic, telehealth can save hours of travel.

What telehealth can look like

• Video visits where you and a healthcare professional see each other on a screen
• Phone visits for conversations that do not need video
• Secure messages through a patient portal to ask questions or get test results
• Remote monitoring, where devices such as a blood pressure cuff send readings to your care team

Not every clinic offers every type. Ask your clinic what they offer.

What telehealth can be good for

Telehealth may work well for:

• Follow-up visits to check on an ongoing condition
• Reviewing test results
• Questions about medicines
• Many mental health and counseling visits
• Some visits with specialists who are far away
• Deciding whether you need to be seen in person

What it cannot replace

Some care must happen in person, such as:

• Many physical exams
• Lab work, imaging, and most vaccines
• Procedures

Your healthcare professional may ask you to come in if they need to examine you. Telehealth is not for emergencies. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.

Benefits and challenges

Possible benefits:

• Less travel time and cost
• Less time off work or school
• No waiting room
• Easier access to some specialists and mental health care

Possible challenges:

• Internet service may be slow or unavailable in some areas
• Not everyone has a device or is comfortable using one
• Finding a private space at home can be hard
• Coverage rules can differ by plan and by state

If your internet is not reliable, ask whether a phone visit is an option. Some communities also have public spaces, such as libraries, that offer internet access. Ask about privacy before using a shared space.

Getting ready for a telehealth visit

A day or two before

• Ask the clinic how the visit will work: which app or link, and whether you need to create an account.
• Test your device, camera, microphone, and internet connection.
• Charge your device.
• Ask what number they will call if the connection drops.

Right before the visit

• Find a quiet, private, well-lit spot.
• Have your medicine list, questions, and any home readings (like blood pressure) nearby.
• Keep a pen and paper ready.
• Have your pharmacy's name and location handy.
• It is okay to have a family member or friend with you if you want help.

During the visit

• Speak up if you cannot hear or see well.
• Ask questions just like you would in person.
• Repeat back the plan to make sure you understand it.
• Ask what follow-up is needed and whether it can also be done by telehealth.

Questions to ask about cost

Telehealth coverage can change and differs by plan. Before your visit, ask:

• "Does my plan cover telehealth visits?"
• "Is this provider in my network?"
• "Will this cost the same as an in-person visit?"

If you do not have insurance, ask the clinic whether they have a sliding fee scale. Many community health centers offer telehealth.

Protecting your privacy

• Use the app or link your clinic gives you.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi when possible.
• Do not share login information.
• Be cautious about calls or messages asking for personal information that you did not expect. When in doubt, hang up and call your clinic at a number you know.

When to talk with a healthcare professional

Ask your healthcare team whether telehealth is a good fit for your needs. If a telehealth visit leaves you unsure about your care, or if symptoms get worse, ask to be seen in person. For emergencies, call 911.

This page is for general education and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional.