Telehealth: Video Doctor Visits

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Not every medical appointment requires an in-person visit – and that's where telehealth can help. Telehealth means using a computer, phone or other device to access health care and medical advice. Video visits are the main telehealth tool used at UCSF Health.

A video visit saves you the time and hassle of "getting there." You can see and speak with a health care provider from your home, office, car or wherever you choose. All you need is an internet connection, a MyChart account, and a phone, tablet or computer with access to Zoom.

You will spend the same amount of time with your provider as you would during an in-person visit.

Which services offer virtual visits?

Video visits are offered by more than 200 UCSF Health medical services for hundreds of conditions. We see patients online for issues such as:

• Primary care (learn about Express Care virtual visits for primary and urgent care)
• Follow-up visits (including postsurgical follow-up)
• Mental health services
• Pain management
• Medication monitoring

Providers can evaluate symptoms, make diagnoses, recommend treatments and adjust and prescribe medication during a virtual visit. Your health care team will determine whether a video or in-person visit is best for your needs. 

Second Opinion Program

UCSF Health specialists typically see patients in person when discussing a complex medical issue or difficult treatment decision through our Second Opinion Program. However, in some cases, a video consultation about the diagnosis or treatment plan is allowed.

How do I set up a video visit? (Basic version)

Follow these easy steps:

1. Contact your provider’s office to request an appointment.
2. Download the UCSF MyChart app to your device, if you haven't already done so.
3. In MyChart, view your appointment instructions and prepare your device for a video visit.
4. Test your device. Your connection is successful when you can see yourself on screen.
5. Begin the MyChart check-in process at least 15 minutes before your appointment time.
6. Join the video visit at least 5 minutes before your appointment time. You'll be placed in a virtual waiting room, and the provider will admit you when ready.

For help, call MyChart customer service at 415-514-6000 or see the detailed instructions below.

How do I set up a video visit? (Detailed version)

You can use any device with an integrated camera, such as a smartphone, tablet or computer. You'll also need Zoom (video conferencing software) on your device and a MyChart account. If this is your first telehealth appointment with us, get set up and test it at least a day ahead of time. 

Need help setting up and checking in for your Zoom visit? Our user-friendly video visit guide makes it easy. You'll find videos with step-by-step visuals and clear, spoken instructions for using Zoom on your phone, tablet, or PC or Mac computer. For additional help, call MyChart customer service, available 24/7, at 415-514-6000. 

Insurance coverage for video visits

Here's how it works by insurance type:

• Private insurance plans. California law requires private insurers to treat video visits the same as in-person office visits. Your plan's reimbursement for a video visit should be the same as for an in-person visit. Copayments and deductibles apply.
• Medi-Cal. Video visits are covered.
• Medicare.  Through Dec. 31, 2027, Medicare will cover all telehealth services in your home, even in highly populated regions of California. Starting Jan. 1, 2028, regulatory guidance may be reinstated that restricts coverage for most telehealth services to patients who live in a rural area and go to an office or medical facility that is also in a rural area. Please visit Medicare's telehealth page for more information.