Get Care Anywhere

Learn what it's like to meet with a provider through a screen and whether this could be right for you.

You might not like to drive or may have trouble finding transportation. Maybe you babysit a grandchild or take care of a spouse. Perhaps you’re visiting friends out of town, or you simply want some space from others to avoid catching a virus. There are lots of reasons for wanting to stay home for medical care. For many conditions, you can get medical care right where you are.

In a virtual visit*, you meet with a provider on your computer, smartphone or tablet. You still get face-to-face care — just through a screen.

How Do Virtual Visits Work?

Virtual visits are easy — don’t let technology or the unknown stop you. If you want to see a provider and an in-person visit isn’t possible, take these steps:

Check with your provider’s office to see if they offer virtual visits for the type of care you need, such as managing a chronic condition or treating new symptoms.
Your provider may ask you to download an app to use for the appointment. They will email you a link with instructions and explain how to connect. Make sure you have the technology figured out before the appointment, and test your audio and video ahead of time.
Make sure your smartphone, tablet or computer is charged.
Prepare for the appointment just as you would an in-person visit. Write down questions you want to ask, have medications and your pharmacy information at hand, and be on time. If you need to show your provider something on your body, wear clothing that makes it easy.
Reduce distractions from pets, family members, and noise from the TV or radio. Don’t be afraid to tell your provider if you can’t hear them or need them to repeat something.

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Some providers also offer phone visits without video. Ask your provider about this option.

Virtual visits have become more popular in recent years because they give people an easy extra way to access care. You get the care you need, when and where it’s convenient for you. Of course, not every condition is right for a virtual visit, including emergencies. Trust your provider’s expertise to know when they need to see you in person and get to know how your health plan can help support you with virtual visits.

Find out if virtual care is right for you.

Review the questions below — if you answer yes to any of them, virtual care may be right for you.

Click here to print this checklist

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This publication is for informational purposes only and does not replace the care or advice of a doctor. Always talk with a doctor before beginning any exercise program, therapy or medication. Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premium and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1 of each year. UnitedHealthcare does not provide any assurances nor accept any responsibility or liability regarding the quality, nutritional value, or safety of the included recipes.

*Benefits, features and/or devices may vary by plan/area. Limitations, exclusions and/or network restrictions may apply. Virtual visits may require video-enabled smartphone or other device. Not for use in emergencies. Not all network providers offer virtual care.