Finding telehealth options
Quick tips
Think you might have COVID-19?
- Try this free online screening tool to enter your symptoms and find out what to do next: CDC Coronavirus Self-Checker.
- COVID-19 testing is available for free at health centers across the country, even if you do not have health insurance. Additional testing sites may be available in your area — contact your health care provider or local public health department for more information.
Do you have COVID-19?
- You may be able to get free or reduced cost treatment for COVID-19 related-symptoms. Ask your health care provider or health insurance company about your options.
Talk to your health care provider about telehealth options
Health care providers of many specialties are now integrating telehealth into their practice.
Here are some questions to ask when you call:
- Are you offering telehealth?
- Is a telehealth visit a good choice for my health condition? What types of care can I get using telehealth?
- How do I schedule a telehealth visit?
The Medicare Care Compare tool can be used to identify health care providers by specialty, provider or practice name, ZIP code, or city and state. A telehealth indicator (PDF) in the middle of the page can be used to identify providers that offer telehealth services.
Find telehealth care through your health insurance
Your health insurance company can help you find health care providers who offer virtual medical visits. They can also help you find telehealth companies who mainly operate through web-based portals or apps that can be downloaded onto your smartphone.
To find out about your options, check your insurance company’s website, see if they have a mobile app, or give them a call.
Find a health center
Health centers provide services regardless of patients’ ability to pay and services are charged on a sliding fee scale. Use this tool to find health centers that offer telehealth and free COVID-19 testing.
Health centers offer quality care to people with:
- No health insurance
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Private health insurance
Emergency hotlines
- For help with mental and/or substance use, visit the SAMHSA Helpline or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
- For help if you have swallowed, splashed, or gotten stung by something, visit the Poison Help hotline or call 1-800-222-1222.