Telehealth Urgent Care: How to See a Doctor Online Now
HSChange Editorial Team
Health Policy Research Team, Consumer Health Guidance
Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Mitchell, MD, MPH, Board-Certified Internal Medicine
Last updated: April 4, 2026
Telehealth urgent care lets you see a doctor by video or phone for non-emergency conditions. You don't need an appointment at most services. Wait times are often under 10 minutes. The whole visit typically takes about 15 minutes. And the cost is a fraction of going in person.
What It Costs
Without insurance, expect to pay $75 to $99 per visit on major platforms like Teladoc, Amwell, and MDLIVE. GoodRx Care starts at $19 with a Gold membership or $49 without. With insurance, many plans cover telehealth at the same copay as an in-person visit, and some charge $0. Compare that to $150 to $280 for in-person urgent care or $2,715 for the average ER visit.
What It Can Treat
Sinus infections, colds, and flu. Allergies. Pink eye. UTIs. Rashes and skin conditions. Minor aches and pains. Prescription refills. Nausea and stomach issues. If the doctor determines you need a physical exam, lab work, or imaging, they'll refer you to an in-person facility.
Major Platforms
Teladoc is the most widely used telehealth provider, available in all 50 states with 24/7 access. Amwell rates 4.9/5 on app stores. MDLIVE charges $89 per urgent care visit without insurance. Doctor On Demand is a covered benefit for over 98 million Americans through employer plans. GoodRx Care is the cheapest entry point at $19 to $49.
When to Go In-Person Instead
Telehealth can't do blood draws, X-rays, stitches, or physical exams. If you have chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, or other emergency symptoms, call 911 or go to the ER. For conditions that need hands-on care but aren't emergencies (broken fingers, deep cuts, suspected fractures), go to urgent care in person.