Six Quick Tips to Prepare for an Online Doctor Visit

Updated June 2020.

Unlike going to an urgent care center, there's not a whole lot you need to do before seeing a doctor online. You can keep your pajamas on, you don't need to brush your hair, and you don't have to rifle through your stuff to find your car keys. But there are some easy steps you can take to make your visit more efficient.

After all, talking to a doctor online may be easy, but it can feel daunting if you don't know what to expect. Here are six quick tips to make your online visit quick and easy:

Tip #1: Get your insurance card

Many insurance plans reimburse telehealth visits. You'll want to take advantage of that benefit! If you don't see your insurance company in the drop-down menu, contact them and tell them you want telehealth covered.

Tip #2: Choose a doctor

One of the exciting aspects of online doctor visits is that you can choose the doctor you want to see. Scan through the available doctors' profiles and choose the one you feel most comfortable having an online visit with.

Tip #3: Choose a pharmacy

Once you select the doctor you want to see, you'll be prompted to choose your pharmacy in case you need a prescription. If you end up needing a prescription, the doctor can immediately send it to your preferred location. It's quick and easy!

Tip #4: Think about your symptoms

Think about how to describe your symptoms. When you're sick, it's tempting to group all of your symptoms into an overall "I don't feel well" state but the doctor will want to hear about what's bothering you so they can treat you accordingly.

Tip #5: Write down your questions for the doctor

Online doctor visits, like regular office visits, can move fast. Make sure you know what you want to ask the doctor before the visit wraps up. Don't worry if you forget, you can always send the doctor a secure message later on.

Tip #6: Check your internet connection and lighting

Before your visit, make sure you're connected to the internet, have a webcam ready, and good lighting so there won't be any disconnections. 

Now you're fully prepped and ready to hit that connect button. See a doctor on Amwell in minutes!