Telehealth vs In-Person Visits: How to Choose

Telehealth is a great fit for…

• Medication refills and follow-ups
• Mental health therapy and psychiatry
• Common skin issues (acne, rashes) dermatologists can see clearly on video
• Minor illnesses (colds, UTIs, pink eye) where exam findings aren't critical
• Reviewing lab or imaging results
• Chronic condition check-ins (blood pressure, diabetes, ADHD)

See a doctor in person when…

• A physical exam is essential (chest, abdominal, joint pain)
• You need labs, imaging, vaccines, or procedures
• Symptoms are severe, sudden, or worsening
• Annual preventive visits and physicals
• New patient visits with a primary care doctor (recommended)
• Controlled-substance prescriptions in states that require in-person evaluation

Insurance and cost

Most major insurance plans cover telehealth at the same rate as office visits. Confirm coverage with your plan and ask whether the provider is in-network. If you're paying cash, telehealth visits are usually less expensive than office visits.