Telehealth allows you to see a healthcare provider without going to a clinic or hospital.
Using your phone, tablet, or computer, you can speak with a licensed medical professional, discuss symptoms, and receive care from wherever you are.
If you’ve never used telehealth or virtual urgent care before, this guide explains how it works, when to use telehealth, and how to prepare so your visit goes smoothly.
Quick Answer: How Do You Use Telehealth?
To use telehealth, you schedule an online appointment, join the visit using your phone or computer, and speak with a healthcare provider through video or phone.
Telehealth is commonly used for non-emergency medical concerns, follow-ups, and care while traveling.
What Is Telehealth and How Does It Work?
Telehealth, sometimes called telemedicine, is a way to receive medical care remotely through video calls, phone calls, or secure online messaging.
Instead of visiting a doctor’s office, you connect with a provider online at a scheduled time or on demand.
A typical virtual urgent care visit includes:
- Scheduling an appointment online
- Joining through a secure link or app
- Discussing symptoms with a provider in real time
- Receiving medical advice, treatment plans, or prescriptions
When to Use Telehealth
Knowing when to use telehealth helps you get the right care at the right time.
Telehealth works well for many everyday health concerns that don’t require a physical exam.
Telehealth is commonly used for:
- Cold, flu, or sinus symptoms
- Minor infections, rashes, or skin concerns
- Allergies
- Digestive issues (Traveler’s Diarrhea)
- Medication refills
- Follow-up appointments
- Travel-related health concerns
- General medical advice
Telehealth is not appropriate for medical emergencies such as chest pain, severe breathing problems, major injuries, uncontrolled bleeding, or symptoms of a stroke.
In those cases, emergency care is necessary.
What You Need for a Telehealth Visit
Before your telehealth appointment, make sure you have:
- A smartphone, tablet, or computer
- A stable internet connection or cellular data
- A working camera and microphone
- A quiet, private space
- Your medical information and medication list
Having these ready helps avoid delays and ensures a smoother visit.
How to Use Telehealth Step by Step
If you’re new to virtual care, here’s exactly how a telehealth appointment works from start to finish.
1. Schedule Your Telehealth Appointment
Most telehealth services allow you to book online.
You’ll choose a time, provide basic information, and briefly explain your reason for the visit.
Some services also offer same-day or on-demand appointments.
2. Prepare Before the Visit
Before your appointment:
- Charge your device
- Test your internet connection
- Write down your symptoms and questions
- Find a quiet, well-lit space
- Join the Telehealth Visit
At your appointment time, you’ll join through a secure link or app.
This usually involves allowing camera and microphone access and confirming your identity.
4. Speak With the Healthcare Provider
During the visit, the provider may:
- Ask about your symptoms and medical history
- Review medications or recent travel
- Ask to see visible symptoms using your camera
- Discuss diagnosis and treatment options
5. Receive Follow-Up Care
After the visit, you may receive:
- Prescriptions sent electronically to your pharmacy
- Care instructions or next steps
- Recommendations for follow-up or in-person care if needed
How to Do Telehealth on Your Phone
Many people prefer using telehealth on their smartphone.
If you’re wondering how to do telehealth on your phone, the process is simple and convenient.
Using Telehealth on a Smartphone
- Download the telehealth app or open the secure link
- Make sure your phone is charged
- Use Wi-Fi when possible for better video quality
- Prop your phone up so your hands are free
If video isn’t working well, many providers can complete the visit by phone.
How Does a Telehealth Visit Work?
A telehealth visit is similar to an in-person appointment, minus the physical exam.
The provider gathers information by asking detailed questions and observing visible symptoms.
While not all conditions can be treated virtually, many concerns can be evaluated safely and effectively through telehealth.
What Happens After a Telehealth Appointment?
After your telehealth visit:
- Prescriptions are typically sent to your pharmacy
- You may receive visit notes or care instructions
- Follow-up appointments can be scheduled if needed
If symptoms don’t improve or worsen, the provider may recommend additional care or an in-person visit.
Tips for a Successful Telehealth Appointment
To get the most out of your telehealth visit:
- Join a few minutes early
- Speak clearly and describe symptoms in detail
- Ask questions if something isn’t clear
- Take notes during the visit
- Follow the provider’s after-care instructions
Using Telehealth While Traveling
Telehealth is especially helpful when you’re away from home.
Whether you’re on vacation or traveling for work, virtual urgent care allows you to speak with a medical provider without finding a local clinic.
Many travelers use telehealth for:
- Sudden illness while traveling
- Medication refills
- Travel-related health questions
- Peace of mind when symptoms appear unexpectedly
Vacation Medicine helps make it easier to access medical care wherever your travels take you.
Is Telehealth Right for You?
Telehealth is a convenient option for many non-emergency health concerns.
If you have a phone or internet connection and need medical guidance, a telehealth visit can often be a helpful first step.
If you’re unsure whether telehealth is appropriate for your situation, a virtual visit can help determine the best next step for your care.
FAQs: How to Use Telehealth
How can you use telehealth?
You can use telehealth by scheduling an online appointment and connecting with a healthcare provider through video, phone, or secure messaging. All you need is a phone, tablet, or computer with an internet or cellular connection to speak with a licensed provider from wherever you are.
Can I do a telehealth visit on my phone?
Yes, you can do a telehealth visit on your phone. Many telehealth services are designed for smartphones and work through an app or secure link. As long as your phone has a camera, microphone, and reliable connection, you can complete the visit entirely on your mobile device.
What is the process of telehealth?
The telehealth process usually starts with booking an appointment online. At the scheduled time, you join the visit through a secure link or app and speak with a healthcare provider about your symptoms. After the visit, you may receive treatment advice, prescriptions, or follow-up instructions.
What questions should I ask in telehealth?
During a telehealth visit, it’s helpful to ask about your diagnosis, treatment options, medications, possible side effects, and what to do if symptoms don’t improve. You can also ask whether you need follow-up care or an in-person visit.
How do I prepare for a telehealth visit?
To prepare for a telehealth visit, make sure your device is charged, your internet connection is stable, and you’re in a quiet, private space. Write down your symptoms, medications, and any questions ahead of time so you don’t forget important details during the appointment.
What is the difference between telehealth vs in-person visits?
The main difference between telehealth and in-person visits is that telehealth is done remotely using technology, while in-person visits happen at a clinic or office. Telehealth is convenient for many non-emergency concerns, while in-person visits are better for physical exams, testing, or emergencies.
What is telehealth vs virtual care?
Telehealth and virtual care are often used interchangeably. Telehealth typically refers to a broad range of remote healthcare services, while virtual care may describe the actual visit with a provider. In practice, both terms mean receiving medical care without being physically present in a healthcare facility.
Vacation Medicine was founded by Dr. Erik Petersen, DO and Dr. Will Carlson, MD — board-certified in internal medicine and family medicine respectively, with decades of combined experience in emergency medicine. Our mission is to make high-quality, convenient care accessible without the stress, wait times, and high costs of traditional emergency rooms.