Many of us are so busy with our daily lives that when a health concern pops up, we often don't want to or can't take the time to be seen by a health care provider. That's where telehealth video visits come in.
Telehealth brings health care providers to you through your smartphone, tablet or computer. It's a quick and convenient way to discuss your everyday or more immediate health concerns with a provider. There's no waiting days, weeks or even hours to be seen or sitting in a waiting room.
We explain how you can get care from wherever you are with a few quick clicks.
What does telehealth mean?
Telehealth is a video visit that allows you to speak with a health care provider from the comfort of your own home. You can use your smart device (phone or tablet) or computer for urgent needs.
Many telehealth visits are available quickly – often the same day. You also don't have to worry about driving to your appointment or parking. Some people find it useful to avoid the long wait times at emergency departments, as well.
At UC Davis Health, our convenient Telehealth Express Care service also allows you to connect with a provider for evening, weekend and holiday video visits. Our visits are always same day. You'll often be seen within 15 minutes of logging in.
Whether you're a UC Davis Health patient or not, you can join a telehealth visit online from anywhere in California. No appointment is necessary.
Learn how to schedule a Telehealth Express Care visit
Is telehealth a visit or a phone call?
Telehealth appointments are typically video visits. That means that you can speak to and see a provider through a smart device or computer screen.
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What are some conditions that can be treated using telehealth?
Telehealth can be very useful for concerning and urgent needs – not to mention quicker than going into a clinic. Some symptoms and conditions that providers often see include:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Flu-like or COVID-like symptoms
- Headaches
- Back or joint problems
- Pregnancy concerns
- Concerning symptoms during cancer treatment
- Cough
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Sinus pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rashes and skin problems
- Urinary tract issues/urinary tract infections (UTI)
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Diabetes
- Asthma and allergies
- Pink eye or eyelid issues
- Prescription refills
- Order lab and imaging tests
There are many more non-emergency symptoms and concerns that health care providers can help you with through telehealth. At UC Davis Health, our Telehealth Express Care is staffed by primary and emergency care providers ready to help you.
If you believe you are having an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Find out whether you should go to the ER, urgent care or doctor’s office
Can I access telehealth from anywhere?
Yes, you can schedule a telehealth visit anywhere you have cellular service or Wi-Fi. To access our Telehealth Express Care, no download is necessary, but you do need to be in California.
Just open the Telehealth Express Care login page as either a current patient or guest (non-patient). If you are a UC Davis Health patient, you can login to your MyUCDavisHealth portal or app.
See how to create a guest account for Telehealth Express Care
Login to MyUCDavisHealth for a Telehealth Express Care video visit
How do I make a telehealth appointment?
With Telehealth Express Care, no appointments are necessary. Just sign in as a guest or login to your MyUCDavisHealth account. From there, you will be put into a queue and wait for the next available provider the very same day – often within 15 minutes or so.
Telehealth Express Care hours are as follows:
- Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Weekends and holidays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Do I have to be a UC Davis Health patient to use telehealth?
No, you don't have to be a UC Davis Health patient to use Telehealth Express Care. This service is available for anyone in California.
What does telehealth cost?
At UC Davis Health, Telehealth Express Care is a billable telehealth service, so please have a credit card available. If you have insurance and are our patient, the cost for many plans is the same as a regular visit copay.
For non-patients, a $79 prepay fee will be required before joining your video visit. You may be reimbursed if we're able to obtain authorization and payment from your insurance.
For billing or insurance questions, please call our Patient Billing Customer Service team at 800-551-9411.
View billing and insurance information
What are the limitations of telehealth?
Telehealth is great for allowing you and a health care provider to discuss your symptoms or concerns. You will be able to see your provider and can turn your camera on so they can see you. You can show them any concerning issues via the webcam. However, they won't be able to touch you or see anything in person.
For our Telehealth Express Care, all patients must be in California to be seen. By law, our providers cannot prescribe medications if you are outside of the state.
What is telehealth etiquette?
For a telehealth video visit, it's best to have your camera function on your device turned on. That way your health care provider can see you and better connect with you. It's best if you're able to remove yourself from any distractions – and not driving – during your visit. You also should be in a private place where you are free to discuss your medical history and current concerns.
Otherwise, feel free to ask any and all questions you may have. Nothing is too "obvious" or a bad question.
This blog was medically reviewed by emergency medicine provider Kelly Owens.
