Here’s a clear step-by-step guide to consulting a doctor online, with tips on choosing a service, preparing, and what to expect.

1. Choose the right type of service

• Telehealth from your regular provider: Best if you already have a primary care doctor — many offer video/phone visits through their patient portals.
• Virtual urgent care: Good for acute non-emergency issues (cold, flu, minor infections, rashes, urinary symptoms).
• Specialty telemedicine: Some specialties (mental health/therapy, dermatology, endocrinology, etc.) offer online visits or e-consults.
• On-demand apps/websites: Convenience-oriented services (e.g., telemedicine marketplaces) that connect you quickly to a provider for common issues and prescriptions.
• Remote monitoring/concierge telemedicine: For chronic conditions or complex care with ongoing digital follow-up.

2. Check insurance and cost

• Verify whether your insurance covers telehealth visits (many plans do). Ask about copays and whether the platform is in-network.
• If uninsured or using an app, review the up-front price. Some services charge per visit; others offer subscriptions.
• For prescriptions, ask if the visit includes e-prescribing and whether there’s an additional cost for delivery.

3. Pick a reputable platform or provider

• Use your existing health system’s portal if available (patient portal, MyChart, etc.).
• If using a third-party app, choose well-known, licensed platforms and read reviews. Confirm the clinician is licensed in your state.
• For mental health, choose platforms that match your needs (therapy vs medication management).

4. Create an account and complete intake

• Sign up ahead of time if possible. Fill out medical history, current medications, allergies, and insurance information.
• Upload photos or documents (ID, insurance card, test results) if requested.

5. Prepare before the visit

• List symptoms, their start date, severity, and what makes them better/worse.
• Note your current medications (including doses), allergies, past medical history, and any recent test results.
• Have measurements ready if relevant: temperature, blood pressure, weight, blood glucose, oxygen saturation (pulse oximeter).
• Gather photos: clear, well-lit images of rashes, wounds, or visible problems — these help the doctor assess.

6. Technical checklist

• Use a private, quiet space with good lighting and strong internet/wifi.
• Test your camera, microphone, and speakers beforehand.
• Have the app or portal open and log in a few minutes early.
• Use an up-to-date browser or the platform’s app on a smartphone/tablet.

7. During the visit

• Be concise and chronological when describing symptoms. Mention recent travel, exposures, or changes in medications.
• Show physical findings on camera if needed (e.g., skin issues, throat).
• Ask about next steps: tests, prescriptions, home care, signs that require urgent care, and whether an in-person visit is needed.

8. After the visit

• Confirm how you’ll receive prescriptions, lab orders, referrals, and visit notes.
• Know how to contact the provider for follow-up or worsening symptoms.
• Schedule any recommended in-person tests or specialist appointments promptly.

9. Privacy and consent

• Telehealth platforms should explain how your health information is used and ask for consent; confirm the platform is HIPAA-compliant or otherwise secure.
• Avoid using public Wi‑Fi for sensitive medical visits if possible.

10. When not to use telehealth (seek urgent or emergency care)

• Severe chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, stroke symptoms (sudden weakness, slurred speech, facial droop), severe bleeding, major trauma, or loss of consciousness — call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
• If the doctor says you need an immediate in-person evaluation, follow their advice.

Quick checklist to have ready for your first online consult

• Photo ID and insurance info
• List of symptoms with start dates
• Medication list + dosages
• Recent vital signs (temp, BP, O2 sat) if available
• Photos of visible problems
• Quiet, private space and charged device

If you want, I can:

• Suggest reputable US telehealth platforms and how they differ (insurance-friendly, low-cost, mental health focus).
• Provide a short script you can use to describe your symptoms during the visit.

Which of those would you like next?