Phone-Only Visit vs Video Telemedicine: When to Choose One vs the Other

Audience: adult

Telemedicine offers two main ways to connect with healthcare providers remotely: phone-only visits and video visits. Phone-only visits use voice calls and are helpful when video technology is unavailable or internet access is limited. Video visits allow you to see and be seen by your provider, which helps with visual assessments and building a stronger connection. Choosing between them depends on your health needs, technology access, and comfort level. For simple follow-ups or medication questions, phone visits often work well. For symptoms needing visual examination or mental health support, video visits are usually better. Both options improve access to care but have limits. Understanding when to use each can help you get the best support safely and conveniently.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe or worsening neurological symptoms like weakness, confusion, or loss of consciousness — call emergency services.
• High fever lasting more than 3 days or unresponsive to medication — contact your healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Routine follow-ups and medication management
• Mild symptoms that do not require physical examination
• Mental health counseling and support
• Health education and answering general questions

What telemedicine cannot do

• Medical emergencies or severe symptoms
• Physical exams requiring hands-on assessment
• Procedures or diagnostic tests needing in-person visits
• Conditions needing urgent laboratory or imaging studies

Understanding Phone-Only Visits

Phone-only visits use a telephone call to connect you with your healthcare provider. They are easy to access and require no special equipment beyond a phone. These visits are often suitable for discussing test results, medication refills, or simple health questions. However, providers cannot see you, which limits their ability to assess physical signs.

Benefits of Video Telemedicine

Video visits use a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and internet connection. They allow your provider to see you during the consultation. This visual contact helps with assessing symptoms like rashes, swelling, or movement issues. Video calls also support mental health counseling and more personalized communication.

When to Choose Phone vs Video

Choose a phone visit if:

Choose a video visit if:

Limitations of Telemedicine

Telemedicine cannot replace all in-person care. Some conditions require physical exams, tests, or procedures that must be done face-to-face. Emergencies and severe symptoms need immediate in-person attention. Technical issues like poor connection can also affect the quality of telemedicine visits.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Prepare by:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your visit:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure your phone or device is charged and has a stable connection.
• Find a quiet, private space with good lighting for video visits.
• Have your list of current medications and health history ready.
• Write down any symptoms or questions you want to discuss.
• Test your video and audio equipment before the appointment.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan or prescriptions given by your provider.
• Schedule any recommended in-person follow-ups or tests.
• Monitor your symptoms and seek care if they worsen.
• Keep a record of your telemedicine visit notes and instructions.

FAQs

Can I switch from a phone visit to a video visit during my appointment?

Sometimes, yes. If both you and your provider have the necessary technology and connection, you may switch to video during your visit. Check with your healthcare provider ahead of time to see if this option is available.

What if I have trouble hearing or understanding my provider during a phone visit?

If you have difficulty hearing or understanding, let your provider know right away. They may repeat information, speak more slowly, or arrange for a video visit or interpreter services if needed.

Are telemedicine visits secure and private?

Healthcare providers use secure platforms to protect your privacy during telemedicine visits. Make sure you are in a private space and use trusted devices to help keep your information safe.

Can telemedicine visits replace all my regular doctor appointments?

Telemedicine is a helpful tool but does not replace all in-person care. Some exams, tests, and treatments require you to visit a healthcare facility. Your provider will guide you on when in-person care is necessary.

What should I do if my internet connection fails during a video visit?

If your connection drops, try to reconnect quickly. If issues continue, your provider may switch to a phone call or reschedule your appointment to ensure you receive proper care.

Sources

1. Telehealth: What You Need To Know — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Telemedicine: Overview and Evidence Base — National Library of Medicine | U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Using Telehealth to Expand Access to Essential Health Services during the COVID-19 Pandemic — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Telehealth: What to Expect — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you have urgent or severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.