Minor urgent care by telehealth in Florida

Concerns we can often help with

Telehealth works well for many common, minor illnesses. The following qualify for a Text Visit:

• Upper respiratory tract infection, such as cold or sinus symptoms, cough, or sore throat;
• Urinary tract infection symptoms, such as burning with urination or needing to go often;
• Gout flares, such as a hot, painful, swollen joint in someone with known gout;
• Ear infection symptoms, such as ear pain or pressure.

Other minor, non-emergency concerns, as well as asthma, use a Video Visit so the clinician can talk with you live. When in doubt, book a Video Visit.

What your visit covers

The clinician asks about your symptoms, when they started, your medical history, current medications, and allergies. Based on that, you may receive home care advice, a treatment plan, or a prescription when clinically appropriate. Many respiratory infections are caused by viruses and do not improve with antibiotics, so a prescription is never guaranteed.

When you may need an in-person exam or test

Some concerns cannot be safely diagnosed or treated by telehealth alone. The clinician may recommend an in-person exam or test, such as a strep test or urine culture, if your symptoms are severe, unusual, or not improving, or if you are pregnant. UTI symptoms with fever, back or side pain, or vomiting can signal a kidney infection and need prompt in-person care.

Call 911 or go to the nearest ER for

• chest pain or pressure, or trouble breathing;
• signs of a stroke, such as face drooping, arm weakness, or trouble speaking;
• severe abdominal pain, severe bleeding, or a serious injury;
• confusion, fainting, or a seizure;
• high fever with a stiff neck, or a severe allergic reaction;
• thoughts of harming yourself or others.

Tips for a smooth visit

Before your visit, note when your symptoms started, your temperature if you have taken it, any medicines you have already tried, your current medications and allergies, and your preferred pharmacy. For a Video Visit, find a private, well-lit spot with a steady connection. If you are pregnant or have a chronic condition such as diabetes, kidney disease, or a weakened immune system, mention it, since it can change what is safe to treat by telehealth.

What to expect

1. Choose a Text Visit for a qualifying concern above, or a Video Visit for anything else.
2. Request a time through the secure SimplePractice patient portal.
3. Share your symptoms and history with the clinician.
4. Get a care plan, and follow up or seek in-person care if symptoms worsen or do not improve.

For ongoing health goals, see medical weight management or routine labs.

Clinical decisions, including whether treatment may include a prescription, are made after evaluation. Nothing on this site guarantees a prescription or a particular outcome.