Provider Access FAQ | OptimalMD
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ Provider Access

Honest answers to the questions we hear most. No insurance doublespeak.

OptimalMD Urgent Care, Delivered via Telehealth

24/7/365 access to board-certified physicians
What is Urgent Care via Telehealth?

OptimalMD Urgent Care via Telehealth offers 24/7/365 access to our nationwide network of Physicians through video chat on your computer or a phone call. Average wait time is 17 minutes to speak with a Physician, from anywhere, anytime, at home, or on the go!

When should I use Urgent Care via Telehealth?

Use Urgent Care via Telehealth for non-emergency conditions such as colds, flu, sinus infections, sore throats, allergies, pink eye, minor rashes, urinary tract infections, and other common issues that don't require an in-person exam.

How do I use Urgent Care via Telehealth?

Log in to your OptimalMD portal, request a visit, and connect with a Physician by video or phone. No appointment required.

What conditions can Urgent Care via Telehealth address?

Common conditions include cold and flu symptoms, sinus and respiratory infections, sore throat, urinary tract infections, seasonal allergies, pink eye, minor rashes and skin irritation, nausea, and prescription refills for non-controlled medications.

I have never used Telehealth, how effective is it?

Studies consistently show that telehealth for common acute conditions is as effective as an in-office visit. Our board-certified Physicians follow the same evidence-based care standards you'd receive at a clinic, with the added convenience of care from home.

OptimalMD Primary Care, Delivered via Telehealth

Face-to-face care with your dedicated Primary Care Physician
What is Primary Care via Telehealth?

OptimalMD Primary Care via Telehealth allows you to have face-to-face visits with your Primary Care Physician through video chat on a computer or a phone call, whichever is more convenient for you. Establish your trusted patient-physician relationship without the need for a physical visit to the doctor's office, giving you the continuity and quality of care you deserve.

This is a great value for those that are often away from home, traveling for pleasure or work, or those with difficult schedules to accommodate!

How do I use my Primary Care Physician via Telehealth?

Log in to your OptimalMD portal, select your Primary Care Physician, and schedule a visit. You'll meet by video or phone at the time that works for you.

What services does Primary Care via Telehealth provide?

Annual wellness visits, chronic condition management, medication management, referrals to specialists, lab ordering and review, and general health guidance.

When should I use Primary Care via Telehealth?

Use Primary Care via Telehealth for annual checkups, ongoing management of chronic conditions, medication reviews, or any non-urgent health question you'd normally bring to a primary doctor.

Why use Primary Care via Telehealth?

Convenient scheduling, no travel or waiting rooms, and a consistent physician relationship you can maintain from anywhere in the country.

Can Physicians via Telehealth prescribe a refill for my current prescription?

Yes, for non-controlled medications and where clinically appropriate. Your Physician will review your history and current condition before authorizing a refill.

Can Physicians via Telehealth prescribe birth control?

Yes. Our Physicians via Telehealth can prescribe most oral contraceptives following a brief telehealth consultation.

OptimalMD Dermatology, Delivered via Telehealth

On-demand access to board-certified dermatologists
What is Dermatology via Telehealth?

OptimalMD Dermatology via Telehealth gives you on-demand access to board-certified dermatologists from the comfort of your home. No traveling. No long wait times. At your convenience.

How do I use Dermatology services via Telehealth?

Log in to your OptimalMD portal, upload photos of your skin concern, and submit a brief medical history. A board-certified dermatologist will review your case and respond with a diagnosis and treatment plan.

When should I use Dermatology via Telehealth?

For rashes, acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin infections, suspicious moles, hair loss, and most non-emergency skin conditions.

What is the average turnaround time to receive a diagnosis?

Most cases receive a response within 24 to 48 hours.

How effective is Dermatology via Telehealth for treatment?

Studies show telehealth dermatology diagnoses match in-person accuracy for the vast majority of common skin conditions, and treatment plans are just as effective.

OptimalMD Counseling, Delivered via Telehealth

Short-term problem resolution and crisis intervention
What is Counseling via Telehealth?

OptimalMD Counseling via Telehealth gives you access to Master Degreed Counselors for short-term problem resolution, referral, and crisis intervention services.

When should I use Counseling via Telehealth?

For short-term life challenges: stress, grief, relationship issues, work concerns, or when you need someone to talk to about a specific problem.

How do I use my Counseling via Telehealth?

Log in to your OptimalMD portal, request a counseling session, and connect with a Master Degreed Counselor by video or phone.

OptimalMD Psychology, Delivered via Telehealth

Talk therapy with licensed Psychologists
What is a Psychologist?

A Psychologist is a licensed mental health professional with a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) trained to diagnose and treat emotional, behavioral, and mental health conditions through talk therapy.

When should I use Psychology services via Telehealth?

For deeper mental health support: anxiety, depression, trauma, ongoing life challenges, or diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions.

How long will each counseling session last?

Sessions typically run 45 to 50 minutes.

Can I speak to the same Psychologist every appointment?

Yes. Continuity of care is important, so we match you with a Psychologist and keep you together for your ongoing sessions.

Can a Psychologist prescribe medication?

No. Psychologists provide talk therapy and diagnosis. For medication, you'd see a Psychiatrist via Telehealth.

Are online counseling sessions recorded?

No. Your sessions are private and confidential. Nothing is recorded.

Is my Psychology session via Telehealth free?

Optimal Prime members receive a set number of therapy sessions at no additional cost. Details are in your member portal.

OptimalMD Psychiatry, Delivered via Telehealth

Mental health medication management with M.D. Psychiatrists
What is a Psychiatrist?

A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor (M.D. or D.O.) specialized in mental health, able to diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication.

What medications can my Psychiatrist prescribe via Telehealth?

Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, mood stabilizers, sleep aids, and other non-controlled mental health medications.

How long will each counseling session last?

Initial evaluations run 45 to 60 minutes. Follow-up sessions typically run 15 to 30 minutes.

Are online counseling sessions recorded?

No. Your sessions are private and confidential.

What prescriptions are NOT available via Telehealth Psychiatrist services?

Controlled substances such as stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin), benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Ativan), and other DEA-scheduled medications are not available via telehealth.

What conditions are NOT treated via Telehealth Psychiatric services?

Acute crisis situations, severe psychiatric emergencies, active suicidal ideation, and complex conditions requiring in-person evaluation. In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Visits, Appointments, Treatments, & Conditions

How telehealth visits work across states, ages, and situations
What if I need care late at night or over the weekend?

Urgent Care via Telehealth is available 24/7/365. Log in anytime and connect with a Physician.

I live in New York, but I'm on vacation in Florida. Where should I request my medical visit?

You can request a visit from anywhere in the U.S. Our Physicians are licensed to serve members nationwide, so travel doesn't interrupt your care.

Can I cancel my appointment?

Yes. Cancel any scheduled visit through your OptimalMD portal at no cost.

Can OptimalMD treat conditions like erectile dysfunction and hair loss?

Yes. Both are treatable through our Primary Care service via Telehealth, with prescriptions available when clinically appropriate.

What if I have a question but don't need medical care?

Contact our Care Coordination team through the portal or call (855) 378-7700.

What are the age requirements for using OptimalMD services via Telehealth?

Members of all ages are welcome. Minors receive care with a parent or guardian present.

How are emergencies handled?

OptimalMD care via Telehealth is not intended for emergencies. In a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Can OptimalMD providers order lab tests?

Yes. Your Physician via Telehealth can order labs and review the results with you.

No questions match your search. Try a different word, or call (855) 378-7700.

OptimalMD empowers everyone to live their healthiest lives, regardless of financial or insurance status.

Contact Us

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Phone Support

Toll Free: (855) 378-7700

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Corporate Office

15002 Lakefair Drive

Suite 103

Richmond, TX 77406

Phone: (855) 378-7700