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Seeing a doctor by video: how to get ready

What telehealth is good for, checking coverage, getting your device and space ready, joining safely, getting help, and avoiding telehealth scams.

Quick answer

Telehealth works well for follow-ups, prescriptions and many questions. Ask your doctor’s office and insurer whether video visits are available and covered; Medicare covers many, though rules have changed over time. Charge your device, find a quiet, private, well-lit spot, and have your medicines and questions ready. Join a few minutes early from the official link or portal. For emergencies, call 911. Never give your Medicare number for “free” tests offered by callers.

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Your checklist

  • Ask the office and your insurance
  • Charge your device; find a quiet, well-lit spot
  • Have medicines and questions ready
  • Join early from the official link
  • A helper can join you
  • Emergencies: call 911

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What it’s good for

Follow-up visits, medication checks, many minor problems, and mental health care can often be done by video.

Check first

Ask your doctor’s office if a video visit is possible, what it costs, and how to join. Check with your insurance. Medicare covers many telehealth services, though rules have changed over time.

Get ready

  • Charge your phone, tablet or computer and test the camera and sound.
  • Find a quiet, private place with light in front of you.
  • Have a list of medicines, your pharmacy, and your questions written down.
  • Have a thermometer or blood pressure cuff nearby if you use them.

Joining

Use the link or patient portal from your doctor’s office, not a link from a stranger. Join about 10 minutes early in case an update is needed.

Help is welcome

A family member or caregiver can join to help with technology or take notes.

Not for emergencies

For chest pain, trouble breathing, stroke signs or serious injuries, call 911.

Avoid scams

Be wary of calls or ads offering “free” genetic tests, braces or equipment in exchange for your Medicare number.

Official sources, and where to look

To find your local office, search for:

  • [your doctor] patient portal login
  • Medicare telehealth coverage

Pick sites that end in .gov. Official forms are almost always free.

Common questions

Is a video visit private?

Doctors use systems meant to protect your privacy. Choose a private spot and use the official link or portal. More ›

Can I do a telehealth visit by phone only?

Sometimes. Some visits can be done by audio only. Ask your doctor’s office. More ›

What can a telehealth visit be used for?

Often follow-ups, medication checks, minor illnesses, skin concerns with photos, and mental health care. Your doctor decides what’s appropriate. More ›

Does Medicare cover telehealth?

Medicare covers many telehealth services, but the rules have changed over time. Check with Medicare or your plan before your visit. More ›

What do I need for a video doctor visit?

A phone, tablet or computer with a camera and internet, a quiet private spot, and your medicine list and questions. More ›

How do I join a telehealth appointment?

Use the link or patient portal from your doctor’s office. Join a few minutes early to test sound and video. More ›

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Find telehealth and tech help

Your doctor’s office can help you set up.

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Not yet reviewed by an expert. Last checked 2026-10-29. This is general help, not legal, medical or professional advice. Rules are different in every state.