A little preparation goes a long way toward making your telehealth appointment feel as smooth as an in-person visit — here's what's genuinely helpful to have ready.
What you'll need
- A computer, tablet, or smartphone with a working camera and microphone
- A stable, private internet connection — avoid public Wi-Fi when possible, and use a password-protected connection whenever you can
- A private, quiet space where you can talk openly without being overheard
- A government-issued photo ID and insurance information, if requested or applicable
Before the appointment
Test your camera and microphone ahead of time rather than in the middle of your visit, and check for any confirmation email or portal message with your appointment link or instructions. It also helps to jot down what you want to cover — current symptoms, questions about treatment, or anything that's changed since your last visit — along with a current list of medications and dosages, including anything over-the-counter or supplements you take.
During the appointment
Sign on a few minutes early in case there's a technical hiccup to sort out. Choose a moment when you can give the visit your full attention — telehealth visits shouldn't happen while driving or multitasking through other tasks. Keep pen and paper nearby if you'd like to take notes on anything discussed.
Where you need to be
Telehealth patients generally must be physically located at the time of the visit in a state where the treating provider is authorized to practice. We currently see patients in Florida by telehealth or in person, and in Massachusetts and Arizona by telehealth on a self-pay basis. If you're unsure whether your state is covered, our Florida, Massachusetts, and Arizona pages each explain what's available.
After the appointment
Depending on your visit, your provider may recommend a follow-up schedule, and if medication is part of your plan, ongoing check-ins are part of how that's monitored over time — more on how that works in Medication Management: What It Is and How Follow-Up Visits Work. If you're preparing for your very first appointment specifically, our New Patients page covers what else to expect from start to finish.
If something goes wrong during the visit
Occasional connection issues happen. If your video drops, try rejoining the same link first; if that doesn't work, contact us using the phone number or email in your confirmation. Telehealth is well suited to evaluation and medication management, but it isn't equipped to handle a psychiatric emergency. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), call 911, or go to your nearest emergency room rather than waiting for a scheduled appointment.
Source: Telehealth.HHS.gov — What should I know before my telehealth visit?