What is virtual care?

Understanding virtual care with Priority Health.

Page last updated on: 8/10/26

Getting care no longer always requires an office visit. Virtual care gives you more ways to connect with health care providers from home, work or wherever you are.

From routine primary care visits to urgent care needs and behavioral health support, virtual care can help you access the right care at the right time.

What is virtual care?

Virtual care, sometimes called telehealth, allows you to connect with a health care provider using a smartphone, tablet or computer.

Depending on your needs, virtual care may include:

  • Video visits
  • Phone appointments
  • Secure messaging
  • Online assessments and questionnaires

Providers can discuss symptoms, answer questions, recommend treatment options and determine whether in-person care is needed.

Types of virtual care

Virtual primary care

Many primary care providers offer virtual visits for:

  • Preventive care
  • Follow-up appointments
  • Medication management
  • Chronic condition management
  • General health concerns

Virtual urgent care

Virtual urgent care is designed for minor illnesses and non-emergency conditions when you need care quickly.

Learn more about virtual urgent care.

Virtual behavioral health

Behavioral health professionals may offer virtual appointments for:

  • Stress and anxiety
  • Depression
  • Counseling
  • Ongoing therapy

How do I choose the right virtual care option?

If you need...Consider...
Routine care or follow-upVirtual primary care
Care for a minor illness todayVirtual urgent care
Mental health supportVirtual behavioral health
Emergency treatmentEmergency room or 911

Benefits of virtual care

Virtual care can help by providing:

  • Convenience
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Reduced travel time
  • Access from home
  • Continuity of care
  • Support for ongoing health management

Common questions about virtual care

Scheduling a virtual care appointment is simple and can be done online. You can book your appointment through your health plan's member portal or directly with your healthcare provider's office.

To participate in a virtual care appointment, you'll likely need a device that supports video calls, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer, along with a stable internet connection. It's also beneficial to choose a quiet, private location for your appointment to ensure a comfortable and confidential discussion with your healthcare provider.

Virtual care visits are usually conducted via video call. At the scheduled time, you'll receive a link or instructions to join the call. During the visit, your healthcare provider will talk with you about your symptoms, medical history and any concerns you may have. They can diagnose your condition, suggest a treatment plan and prescribe medications if necessary.

Many health plans cover virtual care services. Check your specific plan details to understand coverage and any associated costs.

Yes, providers can prescribe medications during virtual care appointments if necessary.

Virtual care is suitable for a wide range of non-emergency conditions, including allergies, colds, flu, behavioral health issues, chronic condition management and preventive care.

Yes, virtual care visits are conducted through secure and private connections to ensure confidentiality.

Depending on your condition, your provider might advise you to come in for an in-person checkup or, in urgent situations, visit the emergency room. Follow-up information, including any prescriptions or recommendations, will be available in your patient portal, on your device or sent via email.

In some cases, you might use devices at home to monitor your vital signs, such as breathing, heart rate and blood pressure. The medical staff can review these results remotely and reach out if there are any concerns or changes.

Download our free guide

For more detailed information on the types of virtual care offered by Priority Health, fill out the form below and we’ll send you an email with a link to our free virtual care guide.

Mom dad son virtual visit in kitchen

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Ongoing health coverage helps make care more predictable.

Chronic condition management