The care inside an online program
U.S. care · September 2026.
Choose the visit that fits the question.
Care can start through telehealth—a health visit by video, phone, or written messages—or an in-person clinic.
Compare how the conversation happens
| Type of visit | How you talk | A question to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Live video | Talk back and forth on a call. | If I need an exam or test, how is it arranged? |
| Written review | Send your history, then read a reply. | Can we both ask follow-up questions? |
| In person | Discuss your concern in the room. | Who handles questions between visits? |
Your location is part of the care
As of September 2026, online doctors needed a licence or another form of legal permission in the state you occupied at the time of the visit.
If you will be travelling, ask whether the doctor has permission to provide care in the state you will be visiting from.
Note AA form needs room for a conversation
A fixed online question list cannot by itself support a treatment decision. This is the Federation of State Medical Boards’ position in guidance checked in September 2026.
This group writes guidance for state medical boards, which oversee doctors.
The group supports first visits by written messages only if they meet the same care requirements as a visit in person.
Ask whether the doctor can ask you more questions and arrange any exam or test needed to assess you.
State rules still decide what is allowed, as of September 2026.
Note BAsk how an exam or test will be arranged
Board guidance reviewed in September 2026 requires doctors to arrange necessary tests or refer you to a person able to carry them out.
Ask what happens if the online visit leaves a question open.
Note BBring these notes to any visit
- What brought you here.
- Medicines and supplements you use.
- Past health issues and any recent tests.
- Your main question and how to reach you.