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When to use virtual urgent care

Know when virtual urgent care is the right choice.

When you're not feeling well, getting care quickly matters. But deciding where to go can be confusing. Should you schedule an appointment with your primary care provider, visit an urgent care center or head to the emergency room?

For many common illnesses and minor health concerns, virtual urgent care can be a convenient first step. Virtual visits allow you to connect with a licensed healthcare provider from home, work or wherever you are, often saving time and helping you get the care you need sooner.

What is virtual urgent care?

Virtual urgent care allows patients to meet with a health care provider through a smartphone, tablet or computer. During a virtual visit, providers can discuss symptoms, answer questions, make recommendations and, when appropriate, prescribe medications.

Virtual urgent care is designed to make accessing medical care easier and more convenient, especially when an in-person visit isn't necessary.

How technology makes virtual urgent care possible

Virtual care uses secure video technology to connect patients with licensed health care providers using a smartphone, tablet or computer.

These digital tools allow patients to receive care, discuss symptoms and get treatment recommendations from almost anywhere, making it easier to access care when it's needed.

What conditions can virtual urgent care treat?

Virtual urgent care can be a good option for many non-emergency health concerns, including:

  • Cold and flu symptoms
  • Sore throats
  • Sinus infections
  • Allergies
  • Pink eye
  • Minor skin conditions and rashes
  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  • Headaches
  • Minor digestive issues

For children ages 2 and older with minor illnesses or non-emergency health concerns, virtual urgent care offers parents a fast and convenient way to get care without leaving home.

If you're unsure whether your condition can be treated virtually, a provider can help determine the most appropriate next step.

When should you use virtual urgent care?

Virtual urgent care may be a good choice when:

  • You need care quickly for a non-emergency condition
  • You don't want to wait for an in-person appointment
  • You're traveling or away from home
  • You're looking for a convenient way to speak with a provider
  • You have questions about symptoms and need guidance on next steps

Many people appreciate being able to connect with a provider without leaving home, especially when they're not feeling their best.

How do I know where to go for care?

Choosing the right care setting can help you get treatment faster while avoiding unnecessary costs.

Virtual urgent care

Best for:

  • Minor illnesses
  • Common infections
  • Allergies
  • Symptom evaluations
  • Medication questions

Urgent care

Best for:

  • Minor injuries
  • Sprains
  • Stitches
  • X-rays
  • Illnesses that require an in-person exam

Emergency room

Best for:

  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Severe injuries
  • Stroke symptoms
  • Life-threatening emergencies

If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Benefits of virtual urgent care

Virtual care offers several advantages, including:

  • Convenience: Receive care from wherever you are without traveling to a clinic.
  • Faster access: Many virtual appointments are available sooner than traditional office visits.
  • Time savings: Skip travel time and waiting rooms.
  • Continuity of care: Virtual visits can help you get answers and treatment when you need them, making it easier to stay on top of your health.

  • Technology-enabled access: Connect with a licensed provider from a smartphone, tablet or computer without traveling to a clinic.

How much does virtual urgent care cost?

The cost of virtual urgent care will depend on your plan. 

MyPriority® Individual and Family plan members have access to $0 Corewell Health virtual urgent care, making it easier to receive treatment for many common health concerns.

Using secure digital technology through the Member Portal, MyPriority members can easily connect with licensed providers, access care information and receive guidance on next steps without visiting a clinic.

Frequently asked questions

Virtual urgent care may be a convenient option for children with many common, non-emergency health concerns. Parents can connect with a provider to discuss symptoms and determine the appropriate next steps.

Virtual urgent care is designed to provide convenient access to care when you need it. Availability may vary by provider and platform.

MyPriority health plan members can log in to their Member Portal and schedule an appointment at a time that's convenient for them.

Yes. When appropriate, a licensed provider may recommend treatment options and prescribe medications.

Most virtual urgent care visits can be completed using a smartphone, tablet or computer with internet access.

Virtual urgent care is best for many non-emergency illnesses and minor health concerns. If you have a serious injury, severe symptoms or a medical emergency, seek in-person care or call 911.

The bottom line

When you need care for a non-emergency health concern, virtual urgent care can be a convenient, flexible and effective option. Knowing when to choose virtual care, urgent care or emergency care can help you make informed decisions and get the right level of care when you need it.

MyPriority members receive virtual urgent care at no charge

Explore more reasons to choose a MyPriority Individual and Family health plan.

Why choose Priority Health