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5 Ways to Make the Most of a Doctor’s Appointment Right Now

By Bonnie Darves

It’s Monday at 11 a.m., and you have a visit set for 3 p.m. with your primary physician . You plan to ask your doctor about a recent knee injury and intermittent headaches, but you only mentioned knee pain when you made the appointment. You’ve put a reminder note in your cellphone to also mention the headaches, but that’s as far as you’ve gotten.

What’s wrong here? For one, you’ve only given your doctor part of the picture, and that means you’ll spend the first few minutes of the visit filling in the details before you and your doctor can start discussing a diagnosis and care plan. Second, the office is likely preparing for a single-issue visit and has allotted your doctor’s time accordingly.

Whether you’re making an appointment for your annual wellness check or a new health issue, preparing yourself—and the practice staff—in advance can help make the difference between a satisfying, productive medical visit and a frustrating one. Below, you’ll find some guidance for making the most of your doctor’s visit —whether it’s in person or virtual.

1. Think big picture about your health, not just your immediate needs.

Preparing a list of your health concerns for an annual visit or writing down details about a bothersome new symptom are good starting points. It can also be helpful to perform a brief health self-assessment to prioritize your medical concerns, says John Wasson , M.D., emeritus professor of community and family medicine and longtime researcher with the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Dr. Wasson helped to create the What Matters Index at How’s Your Health , a brief confidential questionnaire meant to help people identify various potential issues to discuss with their doctors.

Thinking through your overall health prior to your appointment in addition to your specific concerns can help increase your health-confidence level, which Dr. Wasson points to as an important aspect of navigating medical care. Health confidence is an indicator of how capable patients feel at managing their health conditions . Research has shown that higher health-confidence levels improve the engagement of patients in their care and the communication between doctor and patient during visits. Health confidence doesn’t exist in a vacuum—many factors can impact it, including your socioeconomic status and the quality of the care you receive. But spending time thinking about your health before your appointment may help you increase your health confidence and better advocate for your needs.

2. Brief the medical staff on your needs so they can allot enough time for your visit.

Most physician practices set aside an amount of time for your appointment that reflects the visit’s expected “complexity,” in health care terminology. An annual or preventive visit might be scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes, for instance, and a problem recheck—to see how a wound is healing or whether antibiotics knocked out an infection—for 10 to 15 minutes, Dr. Wasson explains. A new-problem visit, when the patient has requested an appointment for perhaps a skin rash or a possible urinary tract infection, might be allocated 15 or 20 minutes. A third type of visit is transactional—you’re going in for a test or procedure—and its length varies depending on the test or procedure in question. “If you use the What Matters Index, and you know how much time is allotted for your visit, then you might be able to detect and remedy a mismatch before you get there,” Dr. Wasson says.

By Lauren Gray

By Ali Finney

By Julia Craven

It’s helpful to have some sense of what goes on behind the scenes in your doctor’s office if possible so that you can request the right type of visit. “Some organizations place constraints on the amount of time providers are given with each patient,” Matthew Goldman , M.D., a family medicine specialist at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, tells SELF. “Ideally, the more time the better. But because a lot of people are often seeking care from a single provider at a time, constraints must be placed to avoid long wait times.”

To avoid a mismatch between the practice’s expectations and your own, Dr. Goldman suggests preparing a list of concerns, prioritized by what’s most pressing, that you want your doctor to address. Ideally, you would share that information in advance with the scheduler or in a secure message via the online portal, if you have access to one. That helps ensure that you get the attention you need and deserve, Dr. Goldman says, by making the encounter as efficient as possible.

Even if you’re not able to share your list of concerns with the practice staff in advance, make sure you know how long your visit is supposed to be. “It’s helpful for the patient to ask, how long is this visit?” Mathew Devine , D.O., associate medicine professor at the University of Rochester Medical Center in Rochester, New York, and medical director of Highland Family Medicine, tells SELF. “They know they’re supposed to arrive at 11:45, but does that mean the visit is 15 minutes or 20 or 45 minutes? Patients should be aware of that.”

3. If possible, be extremely detailed when you brief the practice staff.

At a typical doctor’s office, the front-desk staff, nurses, and medical assistants are all key players in queueing up your visit. So let the staff help you by providing them as much detail as possible.

“By letting the schedulers, medical assistant, and nurses know what’s going on ahead of the visit, the physician has time to review the chart and focus on potential causes—medications or previous medical history, for example—that might be contributing to the patient’s concerns,” Dr. Goldman tells SELF. “I suggest that patients dedicate time to writing out their concerns and then, if possible, elaborate on each concern. Create a timeline or big picture of when the issue started and the treatments you’ve tried.”

The better informed the doctor is, the better the visit may go. Dr. Devine describes an “A+” experience involving a patient who’d been in an accident. The patient was managing several different health care providers and services, and the day before her visit, she sent, through the portal, an update on how she was doing and what she wanted to talk about in the visit. “I have the update and the agenda, so once we get in the room, I’m cooking,” Dr. Devine says. “It’s amazing when patients are prepared like that.” But it’s also unusual; in his experience, only 10% of patients prepare and bring a list to the visit. There are many valid reasons why it might not be possible for you to provide that kind of detailed update beforehand, such as a lack of time. But if you’re able to do this, it can be really helpful.

If the visit will be virtual , preparation is especially crucial. Try to make sure you have all pertinent information on hand and available to the doctor in advance. This includes not only your medications and a timeline of your concerns but also images of the area you’re having an issue with—if that’s applicable and doable. Ideally, it helps if you also access the virtual platform before the scheduled visit start time to make sure it's working smoothly, Dr. Goldman tells SELF. “Technical glitches can be a challenge, so ensuring a working connection, camera, and access to the application before the visit starts can help prevent issues when it is time for the visit,” he says.

4. Understand that your visit agenda and the doctor’s might differ.

If you show up with an eight-item list, the doctor might not be able to address all your concerns in one visit. Also, keep in mind that the doctor will want to focus on any potentially serious issue first. “Sometimes, my patient’s number one problem they want to talk about is different than mine,” Dr. Devine says. The patient might be worried about a spot on her skin that he can tell isn’t cancerous , he explains, but he wants to start with the unintended weight loss that the patient mentioned in the portal before the visit. “I want to make sure the patient gets to talk about their agenda items, but there are some things where we have to meet in the middle,” he says.

If the patient has 12 things on their list, Dr. Devine resets expectations. “I say, ‘I see that you have a lot of things you want to talk about, but we can probably only talk about three to five in this visit. Which things are really important to you that you want to make sure we talk about today?’” he says. “Then I pick a few things that are important to me to address, and we go from there.” If you’re not able to fit it all into one visit, ask your doctor if you can address the remaining issues in a subsequent one.

5. Be prepared to share everything that concerns you upfront.

There’s a phenomenon in physician-patient encounters, the “hand on the doorknob.” That’s when the doctor thinks the visit has concluded and is getting ready to leave the room, but the patient raises an issue they haven’t previously divulged. When that happens, it’s problematic for both parties. The “by the way” problem might be an important health issue that should have been addressed early in the visit. Or the doctor may simply be out of time. Either way, the situation can make for a less than satisfying visit.

Dr. Devine has developed a method for preventing that dilemma. At the start of the visit, he acknowledges the patient’s list, but then asks: Is there anything else? “If I don’t do that, I risk the hand on the doorknob,” he tells SELF. Even if your doctor doesn’t ask that type of question, try to remember how helpful it can be to bring up all of your concerns at the start of the visit instead of saving some for the end.

To ensure that your doctor’s visit is comprehensive, it’s also important to be prepared to discuss anything that’s concerning you—even something sensitive like possible exposure to sexually transmitted infections , Dr. Goldman advises. “These topics can be difficult to discuss for many potential reasons. I encourage patients to gather information on the topic to gain insight on potential causes, testing, and treatment options,” he says. “Oftentimes the office can provide this kind of information beforehand. Having a better understanding often helps reduce anxiety and stress.” If you want to do some online research into a health issue you’re having before you go to the doctor’s office, make sure you only use reliable sources such as the Mayo Clinic Symptom Checker , Dr. Wasson advises. (Or that you rely only on resources that draw from those kinds of sources.) It’s also worth asking if the practice can provide or direct you to information to review.

Finally, if you leave the office (or sign off from your appointment) and realize you’ve forgotten to ask about an issue, that’s okay. Get back in touch with your doctor’s office by calling or sending a message online. “That’s a great use for the portal. If you’re awake at 3 a.m. thinking about something you forgot, and you’re not having the worst chest pain of your life, send a note—and the nurse or doctor will get back to you,” Dr. Devine says. “Just remember that the portal isn’t for emergencies.”

• 7 Tips to Help You Decide Whether You Should Keep Your Doctor’s Appointment Right Now
• Life Hack for People With Chronic Illness: Write an Elevator Pitch. Here's Why.
• How to Actually Have a Successful Teletherapy Appointment

SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

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• What are my care options and their costs?

Where to go for medical care

When you need medical attention, knowing where to go for health care can help you save time — and help assure you'll get the care you need. You may choose care from your primary care provider (PCP), a virtual visit (or telehealth), urgent care or emergency room, depending on your situation. Here are tips to help you choose where to go for care. 

Consider your medical need

Where you go for care depends on what kind of medical care you'll need. Look at the examples in the chart below to get a sense of the options you may choose. 

Tell your PCP about care you received

If you receive urgent or emergency care, It's important share information with your PCP, including diagnoses, treatments, prescriptions and therapy recommendations.  This will help your PCP make the best possible decisions about your ongoing health and well-being. It will also help with coordinating care between other providers.

Do you get your health insurance through work?

If you have an employer-sponsored health plan, 1 your care choices may help you save both time and money. Let's take a look. 

Learn how choosing some care options may help you save up to $2,400. 2

Find out about your 24/7 Virtual Visits benefit if you have a UnitedHealthcare plan through work. 

Learn the details about Designated Diagnostic Provider benefits and how it may affect your coverage for outpatient lab and major imaging services. 

Watch and learn more about where to go for care

Whether you're walking home from work or sitting on the couch, feeling a sudden change in health can be upsetting. Some health conditions are serious, but it's important to keep calm and follow a plan. Watch this video to learn more about when to choose the ER vs another option.

How to choose where to get care

Video transcript

[ Video has no sound ]

Imagine you have a fever and need to see a doctor.

You could go to the emergency room, but you may find long wait times.

Also, you’ll meet with a doctor who doesn’t know your health history.

You can get the best quality care when your doctors work together.

Call your primary care doctor or a nurse line to find the best way to receive care for your symptoms.

You may even be able to chat with a doctor on your phone or computer for some basic prescriptions.

And see your primary care doctor to treat common health problems.

Call your health plan customer service to find a doctor or schedule a visit. The number is usually on the back of your card.

In light of COVID-19, remember to practice social distancing. Wash your hands often and wear a mask. Contact your care provider with questions about your visit.

UnitedHealthcare

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Do you freeze up in front of your doctor? Here's how to talk to your physician

Marielle Segarra

Clare Marie Schneider

Watch this video for tips on talking to your doctor — including what information to bring to an appointment and what follow-up questions to ask after a diagnosis.

When you're sitting on an exam table wearing a paper gown, it's easy to forget all the questions that brought you in to see the doctor in the first place. Maybe you thought your physician would ask you about something, but they didn't, so you weren't sure if you should bring it up. Or a symptom felt like a big deal to you, but they brushed it off.

"I think most patients feel that the doctor is all-knowing, and that in the medical encounter or the relationship, that they are powerless," says Dr. Jennifer Mieres , professor of cardiology at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell and the chief Diversity and Inclusion officer at Northwell Health.

But your doctor can't read your mind. "I always say I didn't have ESP to figure out what was going on," says Mieres. "This is a partnership." She says ideally, doctors and patients should work together as "co-detectives."

And that detective work will be easier for you and your doctor if you come to your appointment ready. "Prepare as if you're going to your accountant getting ready for taxes," she says. "You don't show up without receipts."

Here are a few ways Dr. Mieres says you can prep for an appointment

• Keep a log book of symptoms, including details like:
• When your symptoms began 
• What were you doing when they started 
• How long they have persisted 
• What makes them worse 
• The impact they're having on your life (for instance, it hurts when you bend down to tie your shoes)
• Know and share your family's health history 
• Keep track of your vitals like blood pressure 
• If there's something you know you'd like to discuss at your appointment, send a portal message to your doctor in advance so they're prepared

If you feel dismissed by your doctor, Mieres says that's a warning sign and a signal to hit the pause button and take control. Some helpful phrases in those moments: "This is limiting my life," and "I think that there's something going on and I'm having a hard time putting it together. I need your help."

You can also ask for a referral to see another specialist and bring a friend or family member to your next appointment to ask questions or take notes.

To see Dr. Jennifer Mieres and Life Kit host Marielle Segarra act out a conversation between a doctor and a patient, along with pop-up notations about how to make the most of a conversation with your doctor, watch the video at the top of the page or on YouTube or listen to the podcast episode on Apple Podcasts and Spotify .

This video was hosted by Marielle Segarra; directed by Iman Young; produced by Iman Young, Sylvie Douglis and Beck Harlan; edited by Christina Shaman; filmed by Nickolai Hammar, Christina Shaman and Iman Young, and animated by Kaz Fantone and Jackie Lay. Audio engineering support comes from Neal Rauch. Supervising editors are Meghan Keane and Nick Michael.

The audio portion of this episode was produced by Sylvie Douglis. The story was adapted for digital by Beck Harlan and edited by Meghan Keane.

Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify , or sign up for our newsletter .

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Best Online Doctors

MDLIVE is our top choice for the best online doctor

The rise in online doctors has made health care more accessible and affordable across the country. There are times when seeing a doctor face-to-face is necessary, but remote care is a great option for non-emergency medical concerns, such as colds, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and online therapy. Plus, telehealth helps free up in-person healthcare facilities, making it easier for severely sick patients to be seen by doctors promptly.

With so many telehealth options available, it can be challenging to know which virtual provider is right for you. Before you start your search, consider your symptoms, how often you’ll need care, your budget, and what your insurance—if you have health coverage —will and won't cover. To help you determine the telehealth services for your needs, we've compiled a list of the best online doctors available throughout the United States.

Best Online Doctors of 2024

• Best Overall: MDLIVE
• Best for Pregnancy: Maven
• Best for the LGBTQ+ Community: Folx Health
• Best for Pediatric Care: Blueberry Pediatrics
• Best for Psychiatry: Teladoc
• Best for Comprehensive Care: Doctor On Demand
• Best for Flexible Care Options: Sesame
• Best for the Uninsured: HealthTap
• Best for Affordable Care: LiveHealth Online
• Best Medication Refills: PlushCare
• Best Nutritionist: Tepper Nutrition
• Our Top Picks

Folx Health

Blueberry Pediatrics

• Doctor On Demand

LiveHealth Online

Tepper Nutrition

• See More (8)

Final Verdict

• Compare Providers
• How To Choose

Methodology

Best overall : mdlive.

• Price: Urgent care $0 to $82, behavioral health $0 to $284, dermatology $0 to $95
• Accepts Insurance: Yes
• Platform: Phone, web browser, and app

MDLIVE is an easy-to-use platform that allows you to schedule appointments within minutes. The service provides care for more than 80 different conditions across urgent care, mental health, and dermatology.

Accepts several insurance plans

Provides care for more than 80 conditions

Licensed physicians available 24/7

Responsive hotline for questions or concerns

Offers medication management services

Can be expensive without insurance

Doesn’t provide care for certain issues

MDLIVE offers on-demand specialists for urgent care, a transparent fee structure, and live support for illnesses, injuries, mental health concerns, and hair, skin, and nail conditions. You can speak with healthcare providers via phone, computer, or app-based appointments. It's important to note that the service provides urgent care for both children and adults, but for primary care, it sees patients only if they're older than 18.

To use MDLIVE, simply go to its website and create an account. Once you’re registered, you can input your insurance information to see if your plan is accepted. From there, you can search through providers and schedule an appointment. The medical doctors are available 24/7, but you may encounter a wait.

MDLIVE’s pricing varies based on the type of care you need and your insurance if you have any.

• Urgent care: These visits cost up to $82 and include care for non-emergency medical concerns.
• Behavioral health: Talk therapy or psychotherapy can cost up to $108, while psychiatry visits can cost up to $284 for the first visit. There is care for depression, anxiety, and more.
• Dermatology: These visits can cost up to $95 and offer care for warts, eczema, and other skin, hair, and nail issues.

MDLIVE accepts insurance plans from Humana, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and Independence, plus some Medicaid and Medicare plans. You also can use a flexible spending account (FSA) or a health savings account (HSA) to pay for your visit.

While MDLIVE is a great option, it does not offer a subscription plan or free consultations. However, you may be able to find a discount code online.

Best for Pregnancy : Maven

• Price: Starts at $20 per appointment
• Accepts Insurance : No
• Platform: Web browser and app

Maven is our top choice for pregnant people because of its affordable cost and comprehensive care. With medical experts from more than 30 different specialties, Maven is a great option for those who wish to become parents, as well as expectant and postpartum parents.

Focuses on family planning services and pregnancy care

Experts from 30+ different specialties

Offers care in over 35 different languages

Supports LGBTQ+ community

Flexible app platform for on-the-go appointments 

Features large resource library

Doesn't accept insurance 

No live chat customer service

No refunds for day-of cancellations

Maven is a great option for expectant parents due to its wide range of specialty care, affordable costs, and easy-to-navigate platforms. The telehealth service employs fertility specialists, certified sleep coaches, nutritionists, midwives, and more. From prenatal care to labor and delivery to postpartum support, Maven provides pregnant people and their families with the help they need.

It’s important to note that Maven is not a replacement for your in-person OB-GYN or primary care provider. Rather, it’s a great way to receive care quickly and more efficiently from home as a supplement to in-person appointments. Maven provides you with a care advocate that can help you find an in-person provider when needed.

Signing up for an account with Maven is as easy as creating a username and answering a few simple questions. You can browse the available specialists and choose which type of provider you need—or let Maven match you with the right doctor. From there, you can book an appointment at a time that works best for you.

Maven’s pricing varies depending on the type of care needed and the provider’s level of experience. Maven calls shorter visits “education-only appointments” because you can get answers to general questions but can’t receive a diagnosis, treatment, or medication. Appointments allowing treatment and medication are available with Maven providers who are licensed in your state.

• Doulas, lactation consultants, nutritionists, and physical therapists: A video appointment with any of these specialists costs around $25 for a 20-minute appointment.
• Nurse practitioners and midwives: These services cost $20 for 10-minute video appointments.
• Physicians (OB/GYNS, pediatricians, etc.): Video appointments with any of these healthcare providers cost $40 for a 10-minute session.
• Reproductive endocrinologists: A video call with a reproductive endocrinologist costs $75 for a 15-minute appointment.
• Psychiatric nurse practitioners: This type of visit costs $90 for a 30-minute video call. 
• Mental health providers: For your first week only, 10-minute video calls cost $20. Then, 40-minute appointments cost $70 with master's-level therapists and $120 with doctorate-level therapists.
• Coaches: Video calls with coaches cost $50 per 30-minute session. 

Unfortunately, insurance isn't accepted. However, some employers offer Maven as part of their benefits packages. You can also use HSA and FSA funds to pay for your visits.

Best for the LGBTQ+ Community : Folx Health

• Price: Starts at $59 per visit
• Accepts Insurance: No
• Platform: Web browser

As the first transgender-specific telehealth platform, Folx Health offers care to LGBTQ+ individuals in a compassionate and supportive manner. The service offers care for sexual well-being, family planning, and hormone replacement therapy.

Subscriptions for hormone replacement therapy

Includes a virtual library of supportive resources

Staffed by expert clinicians who specialize in LGBTQ+ care

Provides one-on-one consultations

Currently available in only 38 states and D.C.

Does not accept insurance

Can only treat people over 18

Launched in December 2020, this up-and-coming service provides a safe and supportive platform exclusively for the LGBTQ+ community. Folx Health's model focuses on giving you control of your health and wellness—and the freedom to access expert care, no matter where you are. Folx Health helps patients with fertility, gender consultation, nutrition, sex, and more, plus it supplies medication for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), erectile dysfunction (ED) meds, estrogen, and testosterone.

To get started, you can either customize a subscription plan based on your needs or schedule a one-time visit with an experienced provider. Although Folx is available in only 38 states and Washington, D.C., its services and locations continue to expand. Folx doesn’t accept insurance, as it wants the costs to be as transparent as possible; however, you can choose to pay with an FSA/HSA card.

Primary care visits cost $59, while the price of prescription plans varies depending on the type of medication.

• Clinician visit: Online doctor visits for the LGBTQ+ community cost $59 per visit.
• Estrogen subscription plans: The New Start/Restart plan for estrogen costs $119 a month and is for anyone who has been on hormone replacement therapy for less than one year. The maintenance plan costs $59 per month and is meant for those in their second year or more of HRT. Both plans include automatic refills, lab testing, free shipping, virtual visits, and expert consultation.
• Testosterone subscription plans: The New Start/Restart plan for testosterone costs $139 per month, while the maintenance plan costs $89 per month. These plans have the same perks as the estrogen plan.
• PrEP plan: This pre-exposure prophylaxis plan includes a three-month supply of daily HIV prevention pills for $90 a month.

Best for Pediatric Care : Blueberry Pediatrics

• Price: $15 to $20 per month, plus cost of medical kit
• Platform: Web browser, phone, text, and app

Blueberry Pediatrics has affordable memberships, board-certified pediatric doctors, and 24/7 availability—even on holidays. 

24/7 access to board-certified pediatricians

Visits take 15 minutes or less

Can prescribe medication and order labs

Text option for support any time of day

Memberships include at-home medical kit

Doesn't accept insurance

One-time $100 fee to purchase a medical kit

Can provide care in only 18 states

Blueberry Pediatrics is a telehealth service that provides comprehensive pediatric care to children younger than 21 years old. The company has board-certified pediatricians available 24/7 via web browser, phone, or app, plus its memberships come with at-home medical kits that include an ear infection kit, finger pulse oximeter, and digital oral thermometer for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Memberships include all children in your family at no additional cost, and there are no limits on how many times you can message the team. With 24/7 text support, you can ask the Blueberry Pediatrics team medical questions and receive a response within minutes. The staff can prescribe medications and send them to a pharmacy of your choice, and send medical information to your primary pediatrician to keep records up to date.

The website and app are both very easy to use. After answering a few questions about your child's symptoms, you'll be connected with a pediatrician in a matter of minutes. Blueberry Pediatrics serves 18 states: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Michigan, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Utah, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin. 

Blueberry Pediatrics offers a monthly and an annual membership plan; you'll save money if you choose the annual plan.

• Monthly membership: This costs $20 a month for 24/7 access to board-certified pediatricians. When you sign up, you’ll also pay a one-time fee of $100 for the medical kit.
• Annual membership: At $180, the annual membership saves you $60 each year compared to the monthly plan. This membership also requires a one-time fee of $100 for the medical kit.

Because of its already low-cost membership, Blueberry Pediatrics doesn't accept insurance. You can, however, pay using an HSA or FSA card.

Best for Psychiatry : Teladoc

• Price: Therapy $0 to $99, psychiatry $0 to $299, medical care $0 to $75
• Accepts Insurance : Yes
• Platform: Web browser, phone, and app

Whether you need therapy or psychiatric services, Teladoc offers convenient access to board-certified physicians who specialize in a variety of mental health conditions. Plus, the app makes scheduling easy with click-to-talk capabilities on your phone.

Offers appointments seven days a week

All therapists and psychiatrists are licensed

Option to choose which doctor you'd like to see

Medication management provided for some conditions

Available in the US, Canada, and internationally

No subscription plans or packages available

Doesn’t offer couples, group, or family therapy

Psychiatric services can be expensive without insurance

Teladoc provides a quick and easy option for psychiatric services, whether you need therapy or medication management. Focusing on a whole-body approach to care, Teladoc offers comprehensive mental health services from board-certified doctors seven days a week. It also offers primary care, dermatology, and nutrition services.

To create your account, enter standard information, such as your name, birthdate, and ZIP code. Next, you’ll be prompted to enter any insurance information, which will help give you a general idea of the cost. Once registered, you can search for a doctor and schedule an appointment right from your phone.

Teladoc's pricing isn't as accessible as other platforms, mainly due to its customized approach. Here are the price ranges available on the site:

• Therapy session: Appointments can cost between $0 and $99, depending on what your insurance covers.
• Psychiatric visit: Your first visit can range from $0 to $299 and follow-up appointments cost up to $119.
• Medical care: General medical services cost between $0 and $75 per appointment, depending on insurance.

Teladoc accepts insurance, including some Medicare Advantage plans, but you must set up an account to view specific coverage options. It doesn't offer subscription plans or free consults.

Best for Comprehensive Care : Doctor On Demand

Doctor on Demand

• Price: Medical care $75 per visit, mental health care $129 to $299 per visit

Doctor On Demand provides care for a broad assortment of issues. Patients can use the service for mental health care, preventive care, urgent care, chronic issues, and more. As well, coverage is available for both adults and children.

24/7 access to medical and mental health care

Offers medication management

Accepts many insurance plans

Services offered to adults and children

No subscription plans or discounts

Therapy availability varies by state

Can be expensive without insurance coverage

Doctor On Demand has been providing excellent service to patients around the country since 2013. The company offers a comprehensive lineup of services including urgent care, mental health, preventive health, and chronic care. From weight management to acute illness and stress, you'll find everything you need on one platform.

Doctor On Demand makes scheduling simple through its app and web portal, and it has appointments available within minutes. In the web portal, you can schedule with a certain provider or select the next available appointment. The app is user-friendly and walks you through the entire process from initial account creation to insurance and scheduling. Plus, you're able to check your coverage before scheduling a visit.

Doctor on Demand’s pricing varies based on the type of appointment and your benefits.

• Medical care: $75 for a 15-minute appointment
• Psychology: $129 for a 25-minute therapy sessions; $179 for a 50-minute session 
• Psychiatry: $299 for initial 25-minute consultation; $129 for 15-minute follow-up sessions

One plus of going through a service like Doctor On Demand is that you can use your insurance benefits. The company accepts a long list of commercial health plans as well as some Medicare plans. If you need comprehensive treatment in a hurry, this telehealth service has you covered.

Best for Flexible Care Options : Sesame

• Price: Varies depending on location and provider
• Accepts Insurance: No for appointments; yes for medication

With thousands of doctors available, Sesame is perfect for those seeking flexible, affordable care. It offers a wide variety of services, including dental care, skin consultations, therapy, sexual health care, and more.

Easily view available physicians, wait times, and costs

Works with doctors across more than 80 specialties

Optional cost-saving monthly membership available

Affordable prices without insurance

Accepts HSA and FSA payments

In-person clinics only available in some states

Insurance coverage only for medication

Must pay for appointment at the time of booking

Sesame was founded in 2018, and it offers affordable care to those with or without insurance across the country. As a superstore for health care, the telehealth service provides flexible care both virtually and in-person with experts specializing in more than 80 conditions. You can find providers for urgent care, prescription refills, mental health support, dermatology , dental care, and more.

The website is easy to navigate and up-to-date. Sesame has in-person services in some states, but its virtual appointments (usually video calls) are what the company is known for. To see available providers near you, simply select your location in the upper-righthand corner. From there, it's simple to select whether you're looking for in-person, telehealth, or prescription services. Everything from basic scheduling to prescription refills is available through its platform.

Sesame’s pricing varies depending on your needs and chosen provider. Costs are reasonable and outlined clearly on the website and app, which makes it easy to find exactly what you're looking for. To save money on the already affordable service, a Sesame Plus membership costs $11 per month and includes a free annual lab test and discounts on select medical services. However, you don’t need to be a member to use Sesame.

Sesame doesn't accept insurance, but users are able to view pricing for each board-certified physician before booking an appointment with them. If you're looking for high-quality, flexible care, Sesame is a great choice.

Best for the Uninsured : HealthTap

• Price: $99 per visit (or copay); $15 monthly memberships for $44 primary care visits and $59 urgent care visits (or copay)

Offering primary and urgent care with upfront pricing, HealthTap is a great choice for those looking for affordable telehealth appointments. It has a monthly subscription option that includes exclusive discounts and perks, making it a cost-saving option for those without insurance.

Has upfront pricing

Membership includes Talkspace discount

Can have the same primary care doctor for every visit

Features a free library with physician-answered questions

Prescription costs not included with membership

Doesn’t offer mental health care

Founded in 2010, HealthTap offers low-cost appointments for people without insurance. The telehealth service provides 24/7 urgent and primary care to children and adults via text or video. The board-certified doctors can diagnose, prescribe medication, order lab tests, and give referral recommendations.

HealthTap's app is extremely user-friendly, allowing you to easily book appointments, request refills, contact your doctor, and message other members of your care team—all through your smartphone. It even features a free library of questions from other patients and answers from its community of doctors, so you can learn more about topics outside of appointments.

HealthTap has two membership options:

• HealthTap Prime: For $15 a month, this subscription membership offers primary care appointments for $44 per visit (or your insurance copay) and urgent care appointments for $59 per visit (or your insurance copay). This plan includes 24/7 access to on-demand care, $100 off online therapy visits with Talkspace, your choice of primary care doctor, and more. 
• HealthTap Basic: This plan doesn’t have a monthly fee. Visits are $99 each (or your insurance copay). 

HealthTap accepts more than 100 insurance plans including Anthem Blue Cross, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, and Cigna, plus HSA and FSA funds. With affordable appointments for children and adults, HealthTap is a great choice for those without insurance.

Best for Affordable Care : LiveHealth Online

• Price: Medical and allergy appointments up to $59 per visit, psychology sessions up to $95, psychiatry visits $75 to $175
• Platform: Web browser or app

LiveHealth Online offers telehealth appointments for medical, allergy, psychology, and psychiatry care, with medical visits averaging at just $59—no subscription required. Plus, it accepts several insurance plans.

Affordable appointments

No monthly fees

You choose your doctor

Provides care for children

24/7 access to medical and allergy care

No live chat support on the website

Health care doesn’t come cheap, but, luckily, LiveHealth Online offers inexpensive care for those with or without insurance. It’s free to sign up, doesn’t have any subscription fees, and you know the price of the visit before you commit to an appointment. LiveHealth Online has four types of services: medical, allergy, psychology, and psychiatry.

The website is basic and straightforward. It features an easy sign-up form that asks for only essential information like your name, email, and password. After you sign up, you can scroll through available board-certified doctors and view their ratings to help you choose one that fits your needs. Unfortunately, there isn't a live chat option on the website, so if you have any questions, you have to reach out via email or telephone.

LiveHealth Online has four different services and its pricing depends on your type of care and insurance coverage. You easily can see what your appointment will cost on the company’s website.

• Medical: Medical appointments cost $59 without insurance and might cost less if your health plan is in-network.
• Allergy: Rates are the same as for medical appointments.
• Psychology: Without insurance, therapist visits are $80 and psychologist visits are $95. They might cost less if you have insurance.
• Psychiatry: Your first appointment is $175. Follow-up sessions are $75 without insurance. They might cost less if you have insurance.

LiveHealth Online doesn't offer any free services, consultations, memberships, or subscriptions. Its upfront pricing makes it an affordable choice for those in need of quick solutions for ailments like pink eye, rashes, or tooth pain . Though somewhat basic, LiveHealth Online is extremely budget-friendly.

Best Medication Refills : PlushCare

• Price: $15 per month or $99 per year, plus $129 for the first visit and $69 for all repeat visits or insurance copay

As a PlushCare member, you can see a board-certified doctor and get medication refills sent to your pharmacy in as little as 15 minutes. The company offers a variety of services, but its quick online prescriptions are the cream of the crop.

Same-day appointments available in just 15 minutes

Hires doctors from top U.S. medical institutions

Accepts insurance and HSA/FSA payments

Offers four different types of care

Must pay a membership fee to use

Cost is higher than other telehealth options

Since 2015, PlushCare has been a leading provider of telemedicine in the United States. Its services are available 24/7 and include primary care, urgent care, mental health, and therapy. With affordable pricing and low wait times, PlushCare makes it easy to get medication refills on prescriptions—like birth control, antidepressants, and diabetes medications—sent to your local pharmacy.

Before ever creating an account, you can find available doctors and appointment times on PlushCare’s website and mobile app. You can view a physician's background, ratings, and reviews—and then make your selection. Once you become a member, getting started is easy; just enter the requested information into the form and book an appointment.

PlushCare has two membership options:

• Monthly: Monthly membership is $15 a month. The first visit costs $129 with follow-up appointments costing $69, if not insured, or your insurance copay.
• Annual: For $99 a year, this membership is the best value. Appointment fees are the same, but you save $81 in membership fees.

While the membership fee may be a drawback to some, the ease of getting medication refills sent quickly can be worth it. As a bonus, memberships include unlimited messaging with your online care team as well as same-day appointment options.

Best Nutritionist : Tepper Nutrition

• Price: $170 to $220 for the initial appointment

The registered dietitians at Tepper Nutrition use an overall lifestyle approach for each client, whether you have food allergies, sensitivities, or other chronic conditions that can be improved through nutrition, or just want to develop a more positive relationship with food and eating.

Has sliding scale rates

Consultations available Monday through Friday

Offers retreats, workshops, and nutrition courses

Weight-neutral, anti-diet values

In-person consultations only available in Virginia and Washington, D.C.

Virtual consultations only available in 13 states and D.C.

Tepper Nutrition offers one-on-one nutrition therapy and coaching to those facing a wide range of concerns, including eating disorders, Crohn’s disease, IBS, high cholesterol, allergies, celiac disease, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, PCOS, and more, plus services for pediatric, prenatal, and postpartum nutrition. The practice teaches clients to create lifestyle changes using non-diet, weight-inclusive Health At Every Size® principles.

Depending on your location and preferences, you will meet with your dietitian either in person or virtually. There are two clinics in the state of Virginia (located in Alexandria and Leesburg) and one in Washington, D.C. The practice also offers telemedicine appointments to clients who live in those two areas and in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, Texas, Utah, and West Virginia. 

Price is per session:

• An initial 60-minute consultation costs $195 out of pocket. Your provider will ask questions about your medical history, lifestyle, sleep habits, stress level, daily schedule, what you tend to eat, and other factors that may contribute to your current concerns.
• 90-minute follow-up sessions are $160. Sliding scale payment plans are available to some clients on a case-by-case basis. The company can provide a superbill to submit to your insurer for out-of-network coverage.

Tepper Nutrition also offers a weight-inclusive, self-guided intuitive eating program, Beyond the Fork ($349–$499), as well as occasional yoga retreats and nutrition workshops at varying prices.

Overall, MDLIVE stands out thanks to its affordability and user-friendly features. Book a virtual appointment with a board-certified doctor within minutes of signing up—no matter what time it is. Plus, you can get prescriptions sent directly to your local pharmacy, use insurance, and pay with FSA/HSA funds. In addition, the customer support team is available 24/7 to handle any issues along the way.

Compare the Best Online Doctors

Guide for choosing the best online doctor, what is an online doctor.

An online doctor can be thought of as a modern take on the traditional general practitioner (GP). Online doctors aren't a replacement for your in-person primary care physician (PCP), but they are a smart solution for individuals and families to have flexible urgent, medical, and mental health care readily available via a computer, phone, or app.

Is an Online Doctor Right for You? 

Online doctors are a convenient option when you need flexible care. Since virtual appointments are conducted via the internet, you can book visits at any time of day—plus, you don't have to leave your couch for your appointment. Many online doctors can prescribe medication, order lab work, and provide referrals.

While virtual appointments may be appropriate for mild illness or injury, not every condition qualifies for online care. Seek emergency assistance at the nearest hospital if you're experiencing chest pain, seizures, difficulty breathing, or suicidal ideation.

Comparing Online Doctors

Not every online doctor offers the same services. Do your research before choosing a virtual doctor and consider your preferences carefully. Some factors to weigh include:

• Cost: Telehealth costs vary greatly, so it's important to understand the pricing structure and fees of your chosen online doctor.
• Services: Some virtual clinics offer only urgent care, while others provide ongoing primary care and mental health support.
• Insurance: Many online doctors accept some insurance plans. If you plan to use insurance, you'll want to ensure your chosen online doctor accepts your plan first.
• Availability in your state: Availability varies by provider and state. Check the website of your chosen doctor to understand which locations they serve. It's especially important to research location availability if you're seeking mental health services.
• Platforms: Web browsers and apps are the most popular ways to connect with online doctors, but some providers offer services via phone calls or texting. Know what type of device you plan to use and check that your preferred online doctor supports it.
• Discounts or cost-saving options: Discount codes, membership plans, subscriptions, and free consultations can help you save money—especially if you don't have insurance.
• Reviews from other patients: Hearing firsthand experiences from other patients provides valuable insight into whether or not your needs will be met by your chosen online doctor.
• FSA/HSA: Having the ability to pay using a flexible spending account or a health savings account could help lower costs. Check to make sure they accept these forms of payment if you plan to use them.

Scheduling an Appointment with an Online Doctor

Once you've chosen an online doctor service, you'll likely be asked to create an account before booking an appointment. This helps keep your medical information in a safe, secure, and organized location for you and your provider.

Once your account is set up, you should be able to choose an available provider and time based on your preference. If you're new to online care, it may be helpful to speak to a representative via online chat or phone. If your chosen online doctor accepts insurance, you'll input this information to give you a better idea of the cost before booking an appointment.

Some common questions you may be asked:

• Personal Medical History
• Current medications
• Family history
• Reason for visit

Most platforms are user-friendly; however, if you're not sure how to book an appointment, you can call the number provided on the contact page for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of online doctors.

There are a variety of online doctors who provide a range of services. Many offer acute care for mild symptoms or illnesses, while others specialize in managing chronic diseases and promoting wellness. There also are some providers who offer only urgent care. You'll find board-certified physicians, OB-GYNs, pediatricians, and even mental health therapists and psychiatrists among online doctors.

What Are the Benefits of Using an Online Doctor?

Using online doctors ensures convenience, flexibility, and privacy. They also offer quick and easy access to care, allowing you to see a medical professional and get the help you or your family needs quicker than most in-person clinics.

When Should You Not See an Online Doctor?

Online doctors aren't meant for emergency visits. If you're having a medical emergency such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Can Online Doctors Prescribe Medication?

Yes. Many online doctors prescribe medications to treat mild to moderate medical conditions, but they can’t prescribe controlled substances, such as opioids (codeine, morphine, Oxycontin), sedatives (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata), stimulants (Adderall, Concerta, Ritalin, Vyvanse), and certain anxiety medications (Ativan, Klonopin, Valium, Xanax). Depending on the provider, they may prescribe antibiotics, birth control, antidepressants, or other prescriptions.

What Do I Do If I See an Online Doctor And Need a Lab Test?

Many online providers partner with local labs that offer convenient appointment times, locations, and results. However, most lab services are an additional cost—unless otherwise noted. Still, some online doctors don't have the capability of ordering these tests.

We looked at dozens of online doctors to determine which ones offer all-encompassing features at affordable prices. Our primary focus was on cost, payment options, insurance, appointment scheduling, and convenience. We also took consumer reviews into consideration to determine how user-friendly the platform is, as well as overall satisfaction scores.

Lastly, we considered which providers offered more than the traditional online doctor services. Those with 24/7 availability, prescription drug options, and even lab tests were highly regarded. In the end, we based our rankings on the total value provided by each online doctor platform.

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Koma W. Medicare and telehealth: coverage and use during the COVID-19 pandemic and options for the future . Kaiser Family Foundation.

Center for Connected Health Policy. Compare state policies .

By Lindsay Modglin Lindsay is a nurse-turned professional health and wellness writer with 9+ years of clinical healthcare experience.

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Make the most of your doctor visit

A visit with your health care provider is a good time to share health concerns and ask questions. Preparing ahead for your appointment can help you get the most from your time together.

When you see your provider, be honest about your symptoms and lifestyle habits . Ask questions to make sure you understand. Taking an active role in your health can help you get the best care possible.

How to Prepare

Before your visit, jot down your questions and concerns. You may want to ask things like:

• Am I due for any screening tests?
• Should I keep taking this medicine?
• What could be causing my symptoms?
• Do I have other treatment options?
• Should I worry about my family medical history?

Also be sure to write down all medicines, vitamins, and supplements you take. Include over-the-counter medicines and herbal supplements as well. Bring this list with you to your appointment.

If you are having symptoms, write down details before the visit.

• Describe your symptoms
• Describe when and where they appear
• Explain how long you have had symptoms and if they have changed

Put the notes in your purse or wallet so that you do not forget to bring them. You can also put the notes in your phone or in an email to your provider. Writing things down makes it easier to remember details at the time of your visit.

If you need support, invite a friend or family member to come with you. They can help you understand and remember what you need to do.

Make sure to have your insurance card with you at the time of your visit. Tell the office if your insurance has changed.

What to Share and ask

What you do and how you feel can affect your health. Here are some things you want to share.

Life changes. These may include:

• Job changes
• Family changes, such as death, divorce, or adoption
• Threat or acts of violence
• Planned trips outside of the country (in case you need shots)
• New activities or sports

Medical history. Go over any past or current health conditions or surgeries. Tell your provider about any family history of disease.

Allergies. Tell your provider about any past or current allergies or any new allergy symptoms.

Medicines and supplements. Share your list at your appointment. Tell your provider if you are having any side effects from your medicines. Ask about special instructions for the medicines you take:

• Are there possible interactions or side effects?
• What is each medicine supposed to do?

Lifestyle habits. Be honest about your habits, your provider will not judge you. Alcohol and drugs can interfere with medicines or cause certain symptoms. Tobacco use puts you at risk for a number of health problems. Your provider needs to know about all of your habits in order to best treat you.

Symptoms. Share your notes about your symptoms. Ask your provider:

• Which tests might help to find the problem?
• What are the benefits and risks of tests and treatment options?
• When should you call your provider if your symptoms do not improve?

Prevention. Ask if there are screening tests or vaccines you should have. Are there any lifestyle changes you should make? What can you expect for results?

Follow-up. Ask your provider when you should schedule more appointments.

After Your Visit

Your provider may want you to:

• See a specialist
• Have a test
• Take a new medicine
• Schedule more visits

For the best results, follow your provider's instructions. Take medicines as directed, and go to any follow-up appointments.

Write down any new questions about your health, medicines, or treatment. Continue to keep a record of any symptoms and all of your medicines.

When to Call the Doctor

You should contact your provider when:

• You have side effects from medicines or treatments
• You have new, unexplained symptoms
• Your symptoms get worse
• You are given new prescriptions from another provider
• You want the results of a test
• You have questions or concerns

Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) website. Before your appointment: questions are the answer. www.ahrq.gov/patients-consumers/patient-involvement/ask-your-doctor/questions-before-appointment.html . Reviewed December 2020. Accessed August 8, 2022.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. See a doctor before you travel. wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/see-doctor . Updated January 28, 2022. Accessed August 8, 2022.

National Institute of Health website. Talking to your doctor. www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/clear-communication/talking-your-doctor . Updated April 25, 2020. Accessed August 8, 2022.

Review Date 8/11/2022

Updated by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Related MedlinePlus Health Topics

• Talking With Your Doctor

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• What Is Assertiveness?
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• Planning is part of a "take-charge" approach that one may not usually bring to doctor visits, but where it can make an important difference.
• Specific tactics are needed to serve all the goals of a doctor visit; these should be formulated in advance and not improvised.
• The goals of a doctor visit should be beyond simply "getting better."

Scheduling a doctor visit? Maybe you have some persistent symptoms you cannot explain, for example, you suspected COVID but tested negative? Or, maybe the pandemic is receding in your area and you are overdue for a long-delayed checkup? Time to make a plan. Here’s how and why.

What’s Your Plan?

Your plan should include (1) a set of goals for the visit beyond simply getting better; (2) a clear description of what brings you to the doctor visit; (3) your own theory of the problem , and any observations you have that you may think relevant; (4) a means of recording what goes on at the visit; (5) questions , lots of questions; (6) a follow-up component; (7) the proper attitude and approach .

Doctor visits can serve multiple important goals. Obviously, if you are feeling sick, you have the goal of getting better. But there is much more to gain from visiting your doctor, or there should be.

Presumably, you are not sure whatever is bothering you will resolve on its own, and you hope your doctor can prescribe something to eliminate it. So, treatment is a goal that is instrumental to getting better. An accurate diagnosis, in turn, may identify the appropriate treatment. But the logic there is not as tight as you may think.

For example, after a fairly extensive physical exam, imaging, and even blood tests, I was once given three possible diagnoses for lower back pain: degenerative disc disease, arthritis, or soft tissue damage. I was then told that it didn’t matter which was correct; whatever was causing the pain, the treatment of choice was physical therapy .

Still, you would like to have a diagnosis, since knowing what is going on may have future benefits. In fact, it might prove useful to obtain more than one. Medicine is part art, part science. It is not a bad idea, once given a diagnosis, to ask: “OK, that is the most likely explanation for what’s going on, but if it turns out not to be that, what is your next best explanation?” This may help to prepare you for the eventuality, however unlikely, that the initial diagnosis is wrong, in which case something else may be going on that would respond to a different treatment.

If and when you do obtain a treatment recommendation, you want information on the prescription’s likely efficacy and side effects, and the signs and symptoms of each: Will you know if it is working and, if so, how, and how long might it take? What kinds of effects should you be on the alert for?

You also want to know if there is anything you can do behaviorally to help with the problem: rest, increase hydration, eat certain foods and avoid others, reduce stress , use over-the-counter or home remedies, and so forth.

Problem Description

Take notes on your symptoms. How do they feel, how long ago did they start, when and under what conditions do they occur, and how long do they last? What seems to trigger them or make them worse? What, if anything relieves them? Keep a log with all this and other information that might be relevant.

Your Theory

What do you think is going on? Were you exposed to someone with a potentially contagious infection? Does it resemble something you or someone you know had before? If so, what was it, and what helped? Don’t give yourself cyberchondria by Googling and Googling until you are terrified of the possible diagnoses, but don’t keep your head in the sand either. Use a few reputable medical websites and see what the most likely conditions are that fit your symptoms and for which you may have well-established risk factors like gender , age, and family history.

Record the Visit

Ask if it is ok to record the visit on your cell phone (there are many free apps for this). Or take notes on your phone or another device. If you do not use a note-taking app, you can simply enter the notes into a text or email message addressed to yourself. Bring a friend or family member who can help you take notes.

Ask Questions

Request a definition for any unfamiliar terms or phrases. Do not hesitate to ask your provider to repeat something you may have missed. Why? When? For how long? You want details. Get the full picture. If you are given a printout with a visit summary, go over it and ask any questions you may have about it before you leave.

While you are there, your doctor may ask if you are up-to-date on relevant vaccines. Sure, maybe you got your COVID vaccine. But what about the flu, pneumonia, shingles, tetanus, and so forth? And screening procedures: for example, the digital prostate exam for men, and mammography for women. Keep records of vaccines and screens, and if your doctor does not bring these up, you should.

Should you come back? When or under what conditions? How can you reach the doctor if things get unexpectedly worse? Is there an online patient portal? Can you call and leave a message instead? If so, how long will it take to hear back, and who will you hear back from?

You may need to see a specialist. You might be surprised at the different levels of medical specialization. For example, when my primary care physician suspected I had a form of leukemia, she recommended I see a hematologist/oncologist, a physician specializing in blood cancers. I eventually learned that some hematologists/oncologists see patients with many different types of blood cancers, whereas others focus on a few, or even just one. You might need the first type of specialist to narrow down the possibilities (e.g., an oncologist, cardiologist, endocrinologist, or orthopedic surgeon who deals with a variety of conditions) but you later may benefit from someone with a focus on your specific problem.

Attitude and Approach

Take charge. This is your healthcare visit. You paid or arranged payment. It was not inexpensive. Don’t be either a “bad patient” or a “good patient." Be a smart, take-charge patient.

Hall, Judith A & Roter, Debra L. (2011). Physician-patient communication. Friedman, Howard S [Ed]. The Oxford handbook of health psychology. New York, NY, US: Oxford University Press, US; pp. 317-346. Retrieved from http://ovidsp.ovid.com/ovidweb.cgi?T=JS&PAGE=reference&D=psyc8&NEWS=N&A… .

Grady PA, Gough LL. Self-management: a comprehensive approach to management of chronic conditions. Am J Public Health. 2014 Aug;104(8):e25-31. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2014.302041. Epub 2014 Jun 12. PMID: 24922170; PMCID: PMC4103232.

Laato, S., Islam, A. N., Islam, M. N., & Whelan, E. (2020). What drives unverified information sharing and cyberchondria during the COVID-19 pandemic?. European journal of information systems , 29 (3), 288-305.

Rhodes, Ryan E, Grant, Stina & de Bruijn, Gert-Jan. (2020). Planning and implementation intention interventions. Hagger, Martin S [Ed], Cameron, Linda D [Ed], Hamilton, Kyra [Ed], Hankonen, Nelli [Ed], Lintunen, Taru [Ed]. The handbook of behavior change. New York, NY, US: Cambridge University Press, US; pp. 572-585. https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108677318.039 .

Richard Contrada, Ph.D., is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. His primary research areas lie at the interface of psychology and health and include psychological stress, cognitive and emotional self-regulation, and health-related stigma.

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Virtual Care

Mission Health | Virtual Care

Start an online visit only if you are not at risk and in a safe location! If you have symptoms of heart attack or stroke, or feel that you’re in danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room (ER) immediately.

Get convenient care online for only $35

Receive an online diagnosis and prescription (as needed) for your illness from the convenience of your home. Answer questions about your symptoms to begin your online doctor visit, and receive a response between  7am – 7pm within one hour.

Start your Virtual Clinic visit now View all Virtual Care Options 

Virtual Clinic Is Open Every Day from 7 am-7 pm

Skip the trip — just click.

A Mission Virtual Clinic consultation costs $35, payable online by any major credit card. It is $35 regardless of the insurance you have, or even if you do not have insurance.

Illnesses we treat through the virtual clinic :

Respiratory infections and allergies.

• Cold or sinus infection
• Influenza (flu)*
• Hay fever/allergies

Common Female Infections

• Female bladder infection (UTI)
• Vaginal yeast infection

Eye and Mouth Problems

• Canker or cold sore
• Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
• Sty (bump or bumps on the eyelid)

Skin and Nail Problems

• Athlete’s foot
• Diaper rash
• Fungal skin infection (tinea)
• Skin irritation (contact dermatitis)
• Unwanted or other skin conditions

Stomach Pains

• Constipation and/or diarrhea (irritable bowel syndrome)
• Heartburn or acid reflux (GERD)

Travel Medication

• Malaria prevention
• Motion sickness prevention

Medication to Prevent an Illness or Infection

• Influenza prevention
• Pertussis (whooping cough) exposure

*Strep throat and some flu consultations require a visit to a local clinic where a rapid test is performed to confirm diagnosis.

Click for video transcript

Learn more about the virtual clinic.

You can use Mission Virtual Clinic for the following conditions:

• Cold, flu and allergies
• Cold, sinus infection or sore throat
• Influenza (flu)
• Urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Eczema and dermatitis

We've been careful to select only health conditions that can be safely diagnosed and treated online. If an online diagnosis is not right for you, we will direct you to the care you need.

Once you are done with the online interview, a board certified Mission Health provider will review your symptoms and develop a treatment plan unique to you.

A Mission Virtual Clinic visit takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. Depending on your symptoms and answers, the total number of questions for your condition will vary. Note: The interview is written questions/answers only; there is no interactive video component.

Mission Virtual Clinic is available to patients in North Carolina ages 2-65, depending upon the condition.

A Mission provider is available online every day Monday through Sunday, between 7 am – 7 pm. You can complete an online written interview anytime and receive a response within one hour. You can even complete it in the middle of the night and receive a response from 7-8 am the following morning.

If appropriate, Mission Virtual Clinic providers can prescribe medications that will be sent to the pharmacy of your choice. We treat minor health conditions, and we do not provide prescriptions for pain medications or narcotics. Mission Virtual Clinic is not an online pharmacy. You are responsible for the cost of any prescriptions, over-the-counter treatments or follow-up visits you may need. NOTE: Because Mission Virtual Clinic providers are licensed only in North Carolina, patients must be physically located in North Carolina in order to access it.

Strep throat and some flu consultations through Mission Virtual Clinic do require an extra step beyond the online virtual visit. This is called a ZipTicket, and here’s how it works:

• A ZipTicket is an order from the Mission Virtual Clinic provider for a rapid test to confirm a specific diagnoses after completion of an online virtual visit.
• Mission Virtual Clinic patients can select the nearest ZipTicket location, walk in without an appointment and complete rapid testing with minimal wait time.
• Patients must activate their prescribed ZipTicket, choose the location and arrive within 24 hours from the time it is ordered. Patients check-in at the front desk and are seen by the next available medical assistant or nurse with a minimal wait time since they have already seen the medical provider online. The medical assistant or nurse completes the testing and enters the results through the Mission Virtual Clinic portal so that the patient may receive the final diagnosis and prescription (if applicable) online. The patient is not charged separately for the visit at the ZipTicket location since they are charged for the virtual visit online.

A consultation will cost $25, payable online by any major credit card. No fee is charged if we are unable to diagnose and offer a treatment plan.

Mission Virtual Clinic is a self-pay service. Depending on your insurance coverage, you may be able to submit your Mission Virtual Clinic receipt for reimbursement.

Please call Mission Virtual Clinic customer support at 828-222-7962 .

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10 Things You Should Never Do Before a Doctor Appointment—and 4 Things You Should

Don’t drink coffee before a blood pressure test.

Y our blood pressure will be probably be taken at a checkup, so avoid coffee right before your appointment: it could affect the results . “Using coffee or other caffeine such as energy drinks or colas within an hour of having your blood pressure measured can make the number artificially higher,” says James Dewar , MD, vice chairman of family medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). “The same goes for tobacco products and over-the-counter decongestant medications.” Don’t miss everything you should know about coffee and high blood pressure .

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Don’t eat a high-fat meal before getting blood drawn

You should also skip the fettucini alfredo before a regular blood workup. “If you wouldn’t normally have a high-fat meal, then don’t do it, so your physician can get an accurate picture of your health,” says Deepa Iyengar , MD, associate professor of family and community medicine at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth and an attending physician at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center. Unusually large meals could skew test results. In fact, you may need to avoid eating in general. “If your blood work will include a measurement of cholesterol or other fats, it is best to avoid any calories for eight to ten hours before the test is drawn,” says Dr. Dewar. “Your blood sugar and certain fats in the blood called triglycerides can be increased for a bit after you eat.” And you may not have a choice: you’ll probably be told to fast and only drink water before a regular blood workup, says Dr. Iyengar.

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Do drink lots of water before a physical

In general, it’s a good idea to hydrate before seeing the doc for a checkup. “Being well hydrated at the time of a physical will make your pulse and blood pressure at their best,” Dr. Dewar says. “If you are having blood work or urine testing done, being mildly dehydrated can cause artificial abnormalities in the testing that can confuse the results.” You do want the doctor to picture your normal lifestyle, but you should be drinking lots of water anyways.

Here’s How Much Water You Really Need in a Day, with Nutritional Scientists’ Latest Wisdom

Do eat as you normally would before a checkup

You don’t need to change your eating habits before an annual appointment, even if you want to seem healthy. “Your providers would like you to be honest and upfront about your lifestyle and diet so they can have an accurate history of your health and provide you with the best possible care,” says Gregory John Galbreath , MD, a PIH Health physician in Whittier, CA. After all, a few days of healthier eating probably won’t matter. “It takes a long time for a diet to change cholesterol and blood sugar, so a dietary change of a few days or meals isn’t going to do much,” Dr. Dewar says. Changes occur over the long term, so just eat healthy as often as you can.

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Don’t take cold medicine before a sick visit (if you can)

When you’re sick, your doctor may want to evaluate your symptoms without the effects of any over-the-counter medications. “If possible, don’t take anything so your doctor can see any abnormal findings and assess your condition,” says Dr. Iyengar. “Some medications may raise blood pressure , and your physician would not know if the medication or the illness could be the cause.” If you’re really hurting, it’s probably okay to go ahead—your doctor wants you to feel better. Just be ready to describe your symptoms. And definitely tell the doctor what you’ve taken. “If you are taking medications to help with an acute illness, it’s important to let the doctor know if they are helping and/or causing side effects,” Dr. Dewar says. “This can help the doctor and you decide on the next steps in treatment.”

Don’t get a mani-pedi before the dermatologist

Dermatologists look at your whole body, including your nails, so keep them polish-free. “Avoid wearing nail polish or acrylic nails,” says Sarina Elmariah , MD, PhD, a dermatologist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Subtle clues in your nails can indicate bigger health problems, like anemia, diabetes, and even heart ailments. Plus, bare nails make it easy to spot fungus. Also, skip the cover-up and eye shadow, so your doctor can easily spot facial skin problems. “Avoid wearing makeup or be willing to remove it if necessary,” she says. But it is okay to wear sunscreen or lotions, she says.

Doctors Reveal the Annoying Things They Wish You Wouldn’t Do

Don’t drink alcohol before a cholesterol test

Avoid anything that alters your triglycerides (one of the four components measured in a cholesterol profile), since that could lead to needlessly worrying results. “The precaution to abstain 24 hours prior to a cholesterol test is based on the potential increase in triglycerides that could result soon after drinking alcohol,” says Joon Sup Lee , MD, chief of cardiology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and co-director of the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute. You should also avoid sweets, high-fat foods and generally overeating before the test. “All of these in large quantities can affect the triglycerides in the short term,” Dr. Lee says. “Since we want the result of the cholesterol exam to reflect what your body is doing in the long term, it is best to avoid these short-term fluctuations.” Interestingly, Dr. Lee says regularly consuming one or two alcoholic drinks per day can actually have a mild beneficial effect on cholesterol levels. So go ahead and imbibe moderately when you’re not about to take the test.

Drinking This Much Alcohol a Week Can Negatively Affect Your Brain

Don’t have caffeine before some stress tests

A stress test works your heart by walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike, for example, to see how it reacts and to ensure that it’s healthy. But if you’re having a  stress test that involves pharmacological agents, don’t have caffeine beforehand. “Caffeine counteracts the medicine—adenosine or regadenosine—used to simulate stress in the ‘chemical’ stress test,” says Dr. Lee.

Don’t get too thirsty before a urine test

If you need to go for a urine test, don’t get dehydrated before your appointment. If you exercise, that means you need to drink plenty of water afterward. “Avoid episodes of major dehydration that can significantly alter a urinalysis,” Benjamin Davies , MD, chief of urology at the UPMC Shadyside/Hillman Cancer Center. “And avoid exercise that’s not in your normal daily routine.” If you exercise regularly, you probably know how your body will react and how to take care of it afterward. If you’re not used to it, you’re more likely to get dehydrated.

Here’s How Much Liquid Your Bladder Can Actually Hold, a Urologist Reveals

Don’t cancel your gyno if you have your period

“I would often joke with a patient who comes in and says, ‘Oh, I just got my period this morning, I’m so nervous,’ and it will be like right after I’ve done a cesarean section or delivery—like I never saw blood before!” says Mary Jane Minkin , MD, an OBGYN at Yale-New Haven Hospital and founder of the women’s health website MadameOvary.com .

Any tests you have with your period should be fine.

“The liquid Pap smear tests that are the standard now can be done even when a woman is menstruating, so no need to reschedule,” says Elizabeth Roth , MD, an ob-gyn at Massachusetts General Hospital. “Some women feel more comfortable rescheduling when they have their period, but medically there is no need to do this.” The only exception? If you’re going in for a specific concern, like funky discharge or a lesion, your period might obscure the exam. “But even that is not an absolute as we can still do vaginal cultures,” Dr. Roth says.

Don’t use deodorant before a mammogram

As if mammograms weren’t nerve-wracking enough, you can’t even protect against sweating! “ Mammography advises women to skip deodorant/antiperspirant or powders on the day of the mammogram,” Dr. Roth says. “The reason is that many deodorants and powders contain aluminum, which on mammography looks similar to breast calcifications and could be read as a false positive.” You might be worried about  B.O., but the techs are used to it. Just shower beforehand and it won’t be that bad. Plus, it’s better than getting incorrect bad news later!

16 Clear Signs You Need to Fire Your Doctor

Don’t eat red food before a colonoscopy

Red or purple food can color your colon. Even those ice pops you’re advised to have while eating lightly the day before the test could be trouble. “We ask that these are not purple or red in color because they will mask the lining of the colon and could then affect the outcome of the study,” says Randall Brand , MD, a gastroenterologist at UPMC. Interestingly, iron supplements can have the same effect. And they can have some other not-so-pleasant consequences. “Iron can also stain the walls of the colon, again having an effect on a successful study,” Dr. Brand says. “In addition, iron, for many people, can be constipating and may make it difficult for the pre-colonoscopy laxatives to completely clean out the colon for a successful study.” You should stop taking iron a week before your colonoscopy . Other things that can be hard to clean out are high-fiber foods like raw fruits and vegetables, corn and beans. Dr. Brand says to avoid them for three days before the procedure.

Do go ahead and have sex before the gyno or urologist

Don’t worry: doctors say it’s ok to do the deed before your visit, even though you may think that having sex before a visit to the gynecologist (for a woman) or the urologist (for a man) is a no-no. “Your doctor’s not going to yell at you for having sex—it’s totally fine,” Dr. Minkin says. But again, if you’re going to be nervous about it, skip the sex or reschedule. “It will not affect your physical exam either way, nor will it affect the Pap smear,” Dr. Roth says. For men, you might be worried that it will affect any tests you have on your urine, testicles, or prostate, but Dr. Davies says that’s not the case. “Normal sexual activity is fine,” he says. “There are no significant abnormalities associated with sexual relations.”

18 Truths People Will Tell Only Their Doctor

Do write down your questions beforehand

No matter what kind of appointment you have, you may be nervous. After all, we can feel vulnerable and embarrassed during doctors exams. That’s why you should write down the things you want to talk about before you go (or even make a note on your phone). That way, you’re less likely to forget or lose your nerve. “It’s helpful if you come in with your list of questions so you’re not like, ‘Oh, I meant to ask this, I meant to ask that but I was too nervous,'” Dr. Minkin says. “Don’t be afraid to write down, ‘vaginal dryness is a problem’ if it is, and you can talk about it.” Other than that, the only other thing you should probably do is shower! Use these tips to get the most out of your next doctor visit .

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2 red flag phrases that could signal that your doctor is dismissing your concerns—and how to respond

Medical gaslighting , having your health concerns dismissed by a doctor, is a common practice that many patients experience — and it can be hard to spot when it's not so straightforward.

Some of the things your doctors say may not feel like outright red flags, but should still be met with curiosity and might even call for a tough decision. Untreated health problems can have dire consequences and not feeling supported by your doctor when you have symptoms and concerns could mean it's time to switch your care provider.

There are two phrases your doctor may say that Dr. LaTasha Seliby Perkins , a family physician at Georgetown University, advises you pay closer attention to on your next visit.

2 red flag phrases that could signal your doctor is dismissing your concerns

'your symptoms are vague'.

If after describing your symptoms and giving concrete details about what you're experiencing, "you keep hearing the words 'vague' and 'unclear,' that's something that means that they can't really interpret the information you're giving," Seliby Perkins says.

When your doctor isn't able to provide a diagnosis and doesn't offer additional context for what you're experiencing, "that's kind of a red flag for if they're listening to you, or if they're the right doctor," she adds.

Even if your health problem is beyond your doctor's scope and specialty, rather than denying there's any issue at all, there is a way for that doctor to support you.

"If they can't figure it out, maybe that means you need a referral to a specialist," Seliby Perkins says.

You hear 'somatization' too soon

Somatization is "a medical term for when you embody stress," Seliby Perkins says. "You may feel it in like an organ, but it seems like you're somaticizing your stress, instead of there actually being a clear diagnosis."

Sometimes somatization is a fair diagnosis, but only after your doctor has run tests to be sure that your pain is indeed stress-induced and nothing more serious.

"If there's been a complete workup, you've seen multiple specialists and done lots of imaging, and you still can't come up with a diagnosis, somatization is a real diagnosis for something like that," Seliby Perkins says.

"But if you just met, and it's your first time talking through your symptoms, you shouldn't hear that diagnosis early on."

How to confront red flags from your doctor

If you hear one of these phrases and you're looking to get more answers, Seliby Perkins suggests you ask these questions:

• What are the next steps of care based on what I've described?
• Can you tell me what you're thinking based on my symptoms?
• What are you considering when I explain my symptoms?

"If you can't get clear answers about what they know and don't know, then that's a red flag. The doctor should be in a space that they understand that this is a team," she says.

As a team, your job is to inform your doctor and give them all of the information about what you're experiencing, Seliby Perkins says. And your doctor's job is to suggest tests and labs to get more information, then interpret the information and offer up options for treatment or further study.

Walking away after asking these questions and still feeling unsupported may mean it's time to find a new doctor.

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