Who Our Clinicians Are (Licensing & Credentials)

Audience: all

When you use telemedicine services, it's important to know who is providing your care. Clinicians involved in telemedicine typically hold professional licenses and credentials that show they have the education and training needed to provide safe and effective care. These credentials often include medical degrees, nursing licenses, or certifications in specific health fields. Licensing means a government or regulatory body has approved the clinician to practice. Credentials may also include board certifications that show specialized knowledge. Understanding these qualifications can help you feel confident in the care you receive through telemedicine. Our clinicians meet recognized standards to ensure your health and safety during virtual visits.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• If your clinician cannot provide information about their license or credentials, ask for verification before continuing care.
• If you experience worsening symptoms or new severe symptoms during or after a telemedicine visit, seek in-person emergency care immediately.
• If you feel your concerns are not being addressed or the clinician is unable to answer your questions clearly, consider seeking a second opinion or in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Routine follow-ups for chronic conditions
• Medication management and prescription refills
• Initial assessments of common illnesses with clear symptoms
• Mental health counseling and therapy sessions
• Health education and preventive care advice

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency medical situations such as chest pain or severe bleeding
• Complex physical examinations requiring specialized equipment
• Procedures or treatments that require hands-on care
• Diagnosing conditions that need laboratory or imaging tests not available remotely
• Surgical consultations that require physical evaluation

What Licensing Means for Clinicians

Licensing is an official approval from a government or regulatory agency that allows a clinician to practice medicine or nursing. It confirms that the clinician has met education, training, and testing requirements. Licensed clinicians are typically required to follow professional rules and ethical standards to keep their license active.

Common Types of Clinician Credentials

Clinicians often hold credentials such as:

These credentials indicate education level, training, and sometimes specialty expertise.

How Credentials Affect Telemedicine Care

Clinicians providing telemedicine services typically have the same qualifications as those in in-person care. Their licensing and credentials ensure they are qualified to assess, diagnose, and recommend treatments remotely. This helps maintain quality and safety standards in virtual visits.

Verifying Clinician Credentials

You can often verify a clinician's license and credentials through official regulatory websites or professional boards. Many telemedicine platforms provide information about their clinicians’ qualifications. Checking these details can help you trust the care you receive.

Why Licensing and Credentials Matter to You

Knowing your clinician is properly licensed and credentialed helps ensure:

This knowledge supports your confidence in telemedicine as a safe care option.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure you have a reliable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone.
• Prepare a quiet, private space for your telemedicine visit.
• Have your personal health information ready, including current medications and medical history.
• Write down your symptoms, questions, and concerns before the visit.
• Check that your device’s software and apps are updated for the telemedicine platform.
• Test your device’s camera and microphone to ensure they work properly.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the clinician’s instructions for medications, tests, or follow-up visits.
• Schedule any recommended in-person appointments if needed.
• Monitor your symptoms and report any changes or concerns promptly.
• Keep a record of your telemedicine visit notes and any prescriptions given.
• Contact your clinician or emergency services if your condition worsens or new severe symptoms develop.

FAQs

How can I confirm that my telemedicine clinician is licensed?

You can ask the clinician directly for their license number and check it on the official regulatory or licensing board website in your region or country. Many telemedicine platforms also provide clinician profiles with credential details.

Are telemedicine clinicians qualified to diagnose and treat my condition?

Clinicians providing telemedicine are typically licensed and credentialed professionals trained to diagnose and manage many health conditions remotely. However, some situations may require in-person evaluation or tests.

What should I do if I don’t understand my clinician’s advice during a telemedicine visit?

Don’t hesitate to ask your clinician to explain again or in simpler terms. You can also request written instructions or follow-up resources. If you remain unsure, consider a second opinion or in-person visit.

Can all healthcare professionals provide telemedicine services?

Not all healthcare professionals offer telemedicine. Those who do usually have proper licensing and training to provide care remotely. It’s important to confirm the qualifications of the clinician you consult.

Is telemedicine care as safe as in-person care?

Telemedicine can be safe and effective for many health concerns when provided by licensed clinicians. However, it may not be suitable for emergencies or conditions requiring physical exams or procedures.

Sources

1. MedlinePlus: Telehealth — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. What Is Telemedicine? — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Telemedicine: Overview and Clinical Applications — National Library of Medicine.
4. How to Verify a Medical License — Testing.com.
5. Telemedicine and Telehealth — 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 health concerns, please seek immediate medical attention.