Live video
You and the clinician talk at the same time. Plan a place where you can speak freely.
- Can I ask my questions during the visit?
- What happens if the connection drops?
Start and compare
Compare a call with a reviewed form
Online care describes where the conversation happens. Ask how that conversation actually works before paying for it.
Video, phone and a later reply are different formats
Phone
You talk without a picture. Ask whether this format can meet the needs of the visit.
As of September 2026, rules for audio-only care differ by state.
A reviewed form or message
The clinician reviews the details you submit at a later time. Ask how the exchange continues.
The state board’s records cover a doctor’s licence along with actions taken against the doctor.
Their shared group, the Federation of State Medical Boards, publishes advice about online care.
According to that advice, preset questions and answers on a form cannot be the whole assessment.
The clinician must be able to seek extra answers from you or gather additional details about your health history.
Ask how the clinician can contact you after reading the form.
Check permission for your appointment location
The professional needs a licence or legal permission covering care in your location, according to federal health guidance current in September 2026.
That means the state where you are during the appointment matters, including when you travel.
- Who will review my case?
- Which licence or permission covers the state where I will sit?
- Can I ask a follow-up question before a decision?
Make room for your own questions
Patients need a means of asking their clinician further questions, the September 2026 guidance says.
Write down the point you most want answered. Keep it at hand during a call or add it to the message exchange.
Choose questions for the conversationWeighing care for deep belly fat
Find out who reviews the case, how the exchange continues, and which state permission applies.