A GUIDE FOR U.S. ADULTS
Exploring online care
in the United States.
Online access can make it easier to research care. Whether a clinician can treat you depends on your location, the service and the clinician’s authorization—not simply whether a website is available nationwide.
Why your physical location matters.
HHS explains that cross-state telehealth practice varies with state requirements. Providers should verify a patient’s location before an appointment. If you travel, attend school out of state or divide your time between residences, tell the provider where you will actually be during the encounter.
Before you book online care.
- Confirm the service. Ask whether the platform evaluates your particular concern.
- Confirm the clinician. Request the treating professional’s identity and relevant credentials.
- Confirm location. Check whether the clinician can see you where you will be located.
- Confirm the process. Ask whether an examination, laboratory testing or specialist referral may be needed.
- Confirm costs and follow-up. Understand what happens after the initial visit and how to get help.
Explore information by area of care.
Research now. Confirm access before care.
PEPT-I-DO accepts information requests from U.S. adults. We do not offer immediate clinical appointments or guarantee future state coverage.
Request information →Source checked October 20, 2026. This is general service-navigation information, not state-specific legal or medical advice.