Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about virtual visits (appointments by video or phone call) at UVA Health.
General FAQs
What is a virtual visit?
A virtual visit is an appointment that happens through either:
- Video (online using your computer, tablet, or smartphone)
- Phone call
This visit can be with a doctor, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, physical therapist, or other clinicians.
Are all appointments eligible for virtual visits?
No. While virtual visits work for many health problems, some conditions require an in-person visit.
What are the benefits of virtual visits?
Virtual visits may replace an in-person visit and help you:
- Get care more quickly
- Save the time and expense of travel
- Stay home with your children or other loved ones
Do I need a MyChart account to have a virtual visit?
No. You can join a virtual visit with or without an active UVA Health MyChart account. You'll receive video links by text and email on the morning of your appointment. No apps or downloads are required. Enter your date of birth to verify your identity.
How do I know if my UVA Health provider does video or phone visits?
Not all providers and clinics offer virtual visits. Contact your provider or clinic to find out if video or phone visits are an option.
Is it possible to have a family member or caregiver join my virtual visit?
Yes. To protect your privacy, please talk with your provider beforehand about having another person who will hear your personal medical information join the visit.
Can teens participate in video visits?
Yes. Patients aged 13 and older can both get automatic links to video visits and create their own MyChart account.
Parents and legal guardians can't set up these accounts on behalf of their teens. Get more information about here about teen access to MyChart.
If I have a medical emergency, is a virtual visit the best way to receive care?
No. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Scheduling FAQs
How do I schedule a virtual visit?
Contact your clinic:
- By phone – find a clinic location
- Through MyChart
Ask if your health problem can be taken care of through a virtual visit or if your provider thinks an in-person visit is needed.
Can I schedule a virtual visit if I am a patient who is new to UVA?
Contact the clinic to find out if your first visit with a clinician can be done through a virtual visit. Find a location near you.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel my appointment?
Cancel or reschedule your appointment by contacting the clinic or through MyChart.
Are language support services available?
In many cases, language interpreter services are available. Ask your clinic when scheduling your visit.
Billing FAQs
How will I be billed?
Through your insurance. Typical copays apply. Contact your insurance provider for more information.
Get more information about UVA Health billing and insurance.
Technology FAQs
What apps do I need to connect to a video visit?
You don't need to download any apps to connect to a video visit. You can connect to your video visit through the link you get by text or email.
If you have a UVA Health MyChart account, you can also connet through the app or the website.
How do I know if my camera, audio, and internet will work for my video visit?
Before you connect to the virtual visit, the system automatically checks that your camera, microphone, and speaker are ready.
If one of those doesn't connect, follow the prompts on the screen to troubleshoot.
How do I check my internet speed and what is the recommended speed?
Test your speed here by clicking “Run Speed Test”.
- Recommended speed: 1 Mbps download AND upload speeds
- Minimum speed: 0.5 Mbps (512 Kbps) download AND upload speeds
How do I improve my internet connection?
Ask everyone in your household to stay off the internet during your visit to maximize internet connection strength. This includes you and your household avoiding online video games, online classes, video streaming and chat, music streaming, etc. during the time of your virtual visit.
What if I don't have an internet connection or my connection isn't good enough for video streaming?
Contact the clinic to see if an appointment over the phone is an option.
What if I have issues or need help starting my video visit?
Contact the Helpdesk at 434.243.2500, available 24/7.