Visit Your Doctor Online
Virtual visits allow you to meet easily with your doctor through video and receive care from your home via smart phone, tablet or computer.
BIDMC wants you to be able to receive quality healthcare in a safe and convenient manner. A virtual visit allows you to have an appointment with your doctor or nurse practitioner through a video-enabled device. You are able to see your provider, and they can see you, from the comfort of your own home. This service is easy to use, private, secure and HIPAA-compliant.
What to expect at a virtual visit
If you currently have an appointment scheduled with a BIDMC doctor, our scheduling teams will call you prior to your appointment to discuss your options. If you and your doctor have concerns about COVID-19 exposure or it is more convenient for you, you may choose to see your doctor with a virtual visit if your doctor participates in this service.
If you and your doctor choose to have a virtual visit, you will receive an email or text link with an appointment confirmation and a link to start your appointment. Simply click the link a few minutes prior to your appointment time to get started.
How can I make the most of my virtual visit?
To make the most of your virtual visit, have the following information ready,
- What you'd like to discuss in your appointment
- Medications you are taking, including vitamins and over-the-counter medicines and if you need any prescription refills
- Any basic symptoms you have been experiencing
- Any changes in your health since your last doctor's visit
- Your medical history
- Any blood pressure readings you have tracked at home from a blood pressure monitor or other data you have gathered from your smartwatch, smartphone or a fitness tracking device
- The name and phone number of your pharmacy
Other virtual tips include,
- Have your computer, tablet or phone charged or plugged in
- Connect to WiFi or ensure a strong internet connection
- "Arrive" for your appointment 10 minutes early
- Ensure your web browser is up to date
- Locate a quiet, private place where you can talk, away from distractions
- Have a pen and paper ready to take notes
Where and when can I make a virtual visit?
Virtual visits are intended for current BIDMC patients with a scheduled appointment. You can use the service from anywhere in Massachusetts during regular office hours.
How much does a virtual visit cost?
Your insurance provider will be billed for your virtual visit. Your copay may be waived at this time due to the COVID-19 public health situation.
What can I expect during my virtual visit?
After clicking the email or text link to enter our virtual visit application, you will be connected to a video appointment with your doctor. Your doctor or other provider will review your medical information, and, as appropriate, diagnose and provide care for your medical condition and address your concerns. If necessary, the doctor will prescribe medication and submit prescriptions to your preferred pharmacy.
Is my visit private and secure?
Yes, your virtual visit is a private, secure, HIPAA-compliant tool that allows you to consult safely and confidentially with a doctor online.
Can I receive a prescription from my doctor at a virtual visit?
BIDMC doctors can, at their discretion, prescribe medication as needed during a virtual visit. Please note that by law narcotics/opiates cannot be prescribed via telehealth visits. Also, this service does not provide prescriptions for muscle relaxants or erectile dysfunction medications.
What if my condition requires an in-person visit?
If your doctor cannot diagnose your condition over the virtual visit and recommends that you be seen in person, the doctor will refer you to a specially arranged urgent visit to a primary care site, to an emergency department or urgent care location.
