Scripps Video Visits Make Getting Care More Convenient
Connect with a Scripps provider from home through MyScripps
Connect with a Scripps provider from home through MyScripps
When you’re not feeling well or have a question about your health, getting care doesn’t always require a trip to the doctor’s office.
Scripps Video Visits let you meet face-to-face with a healthcare provider using a smartphone, tablet or computer. Depending on your needs, you can connect with a provider for same-day care or schedule a future Video Visit with a primary care doctor or specialist.
To use Video Visit, you need a MyScripps patient portal account and must be physically located in California at the time of your appointment.
For many routine and follow-up needs, a Video Visit offers another way to connect with your care team.
“Video visits won’t replace every in-person appointment, but when a physical exam isn’t needed, they can provide patients with a secure and convenient option for care,” says David Wetherhold, MD, Scripps chief medical information officer for ambulatory care.
What are the benefits of a Video Visit?
A Video Visit can save you the time and effort of traveling to a medical office and waiting to be seen. You can connect with a provider from home, work or another private location.
They can also make it easier to stay connected with your care team for follow-up appointments and ongoing health needs. Your provider can review your medical history, discuss symptoms and test results and recommend next steps.
Virtual care may also reduce unnecessary exposure to contagious illnesses in a waiting room, which can be especially helpful when you are already sick or want to avoid spreading an infection to others.
What types of Video Visits are available?
Scripps offers several options depending on the type of care you need.
On-Demand primary care Video Visits are available to current Scripps Clinic and Scripps Coastal Medical Center primary care patients. No appointment is necessary. Log in to MyScripps, select an On-Demand Primary Care Video Visit and connect with the next available doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant.
Scheduled Video Visits are also available with many Scripps primary care physicians and specialists. Depending on the provider, you may be able to schedule online or by calling the physician’s office.
HealthExpress Video Visits provide same-day care for minor illnesses and injuries. You can choose an On-Demand visit with the next available provider or select an available appointment time.
What can a Video Visit treat?
Video Visits can address a range of health needs, from minor illnesses and injuries to follow-up and specialty care.
HealthExpress may be appropriate for common concerns such as:
- Allergies
- Cold and flu symptoms
- Pink eye
- Rashes
- Minor burns
- Insect bites
- Sprains and strains
- Minor back pain
- Urinary tract infections
Primary care and specialty visits can support a broader range of needs, including:
- Routine care
- Follow-up questions
- Medication management
- Reviewing test results
- Managing chronic health conditions
Virtual appointments may also be appropriate for some post-surgical follow-up visits and specialty appointments that do not require a physical exam or procedure.
What happens during a Video Visit?
Once you connect, your provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history and other health concerns.
Video can also help your provider evaluate visible symptoms, such as a rash or swelling. During a scheduled primary care or specialty visit, your doctor may also review recent laboratory or imaging results, discuss treatment and answer questions.
If appropriate, your provider can recommend treatment and send a prescription electronically to your pharmacy.
HealthExpress Video Visits generally take about 10 to 15 minutes. Scheduled primary care and specialist Video Visits may take about 20 to 30 minutes. Family members and caregivers may also be able to join from another location.
Before your appointment, it can help to have a list of medications, symptoms and questions ready to discuss. If your visit involves a visible concern, such as a rash or swelling, make sure you are in a well-lit location where your provider can see the affected area clearly. Choose a private place where you can talk comfortably about your health.
What if you don’t know what type of care you need?
A Video Visit is just one of several virtual-care options available through Scripps.
For certain minor conditions, an E-Visit lets you complete an online health questionnaire and, when appropriate, upload photos. A Scripps provider reviews your information and sends you a personalized care plan without requiring a video appointment.
If you aren't sure where to start, Scripps Symptom Checker can help assess your symptoms and guide you to the appropriate level of care. Depending on your answers, that may include self-care, an E-Visit, a Video Visit or in-person care.
When is a Video Visit not appropriate?
Video Visits offer a convenient way to get care, but they cannot replace every in-person appointment.
Some symptoms or medical conditions require a hands-on examination, diagnostic testing or imaging. “We can’t listen to your lungs for instance with a Video Visit,” Dr. Wetherhold says.
If your provider determines you need to be seen in person, they can direct you to your doctor’s office, a Scripps HealthExpress walk-in clinic, urgent care or another appropriate location.
For severe or life-threatening symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
How do I get started with a Scripps Video Visit?
Log in to MyScripps through the website or mobile app and choose the Video Visit option that best fits your needs.
For an On-Demand visit, select primary care or HealthExpress to connect with the next available provider. If you already have a scheduled Video Visit, you can complete an eCheck-in through MyScripps before your appointment and use MyScripps to join the visit.
After your visit, you can return to MyScripps to review health information and manage any follow-up needs.
How much does a Video Visit cost?
The cost of a Video Visit depends on your insurance coverage and the type of visit.
Scripps bills primary and specialist Video Visits through your insurance, and you are responsible for the amount determined by your health plan.
Check MyScripps or contact your insurance plan for information about your expected cost.