A video visit with a PrescriberNow provider is much like a standard office appointment — only you do not leave home, and the wait is measured in minutes, not weeks. Here is exactly what to expect.
Video visit vs. asynchronous visit: which do you need?
PrescriberNow offers two visit formats, and the right one depends on your clinical situation.
Asynchronous (form-based) visits
Most PrescriberNow visits are asynchronous. You complete a structured intake form with your symptoms, medical history, medications, and photos if relevant. A board-certified provider reviews your submission and responds with a care plan — often within a short window. This format works well for straightforward conditions, refill requests, and programs where the clinical picture is well-defined (such as many chronic care and wellness programs). You can start one anytime at intake.
Video visits
A live video appointment is used when a real-time clinical conversation adds important diagnostic value. Examples include situations where a visual examination is needed, the clinical picture is ambiguous, the provider wants to discuss a nuanced treatment decision directly, or follow-up requires two-way dialogue. You can book a video visit directly, or your provider may request one after reviewing your intake.
If you are unsure which format fits your situation, the intake flow will guide you — or you can book a video visit from the start and let your provider assess from there.
How to prepare for your video visit
A few minutes of preparation makes a real difference in the quality of your visit. Here is a short checklist:
- Photo ID ready: State-issued ID or passport is required for identity verification at the start of the visit.
- Quiet, well-lit space: Find a private location where you feel comfortable discussing your health. Good lighting — ideally facing a window or a lamp — helps your provider see you clearly.
- Test your camera and microphone: Do a quick check in your browser or device settings before the appointment. Most video visit failures are due to camera or mic permissions being blocked — grant access when prompted.
- Current medications and dosages: Have a list or the bottles on hand. Include vitamins and supplements.
- Known allergies: Especially drug allergies — include what reaction you had.
- Symptom timeline: Be ready to describe when symptoms started, what makes them better or worse, and any treatments you have already tried.
- Relevant prior test results: If you have recent lab work, imaging reports, or specialist notes that relate to your visit reason, have them accessible.
- Stable internet connection: A Wi-Fi connection is more reliable than cellular data for video quality. If you are on mobile, stay in one place during the call.
You do not need to download an app. Video visits run in your browser on desktop or mobile.
What happens during the visit
When your appointment time arrives, you will join a secure video room directly from the link sent to you. Your provider will introduce themselves and confirm your identity.
The visit typically covers:
- Chief complaint and history: Your provider will ask about your primary concern, how long it has been present, and relevant background. Answer as specifically as you can — detail helps.
- Medication and allergy review: Even if you provided this on the intake form, the provider may confirm current medications and any changes.
- Visual or observational exam: Depending on your concern, your provider may ask you to show them something on camera — a rash, a skin lesion, how you are moving — or to perform simple self-assessments they guide you through.
- Clinical assessment: The provider synthesizes what they see and hear to form a clinical impression. They may ask clarifying questions.
- Treatment discussion: If a prescription or care plan is appropriate, your provider will explain the recommendation, discuss alternatives, describe what to expect, and answer your questions. If a prescription is not clinically appropriate, they will explain why and may suggest other options.
Most video visits run 10–20 minutes, though complex situations may take longer. You are encouraged to ask questions — this is your visit.
After your visit
When the visit ends, your provider finalizes any orders. Here is what happens next:
- E-prescription to your local pharmacy: If a medication was prescribed, the prescription is transmitted electronically to the independent local pharmacy you selected — the same way any doctor's office sends a prescription. You will receive a notification when it is ready for pickup or delivery.
- Visit summary: A summary of your provider's findings and care plan is available in your account.
- Follow-up messaging: Have a question after the visit? You can send a message through the platform. Your provider or care team will respond. If your situation changes significantly, you may be directed to book a follow-up visit or seek in-person care.
- Referrals if needed: If your provider determines that in-person evaluation, laboratory testing, or specialist consultation is warranted, they will communicate that clearly and provide guidance on next steps.
PrescriberNow does not operate a mail-order pharmacy. Your prescription is fulfilled by a licensed pharmacist in your community, just like any other prescription you have filled.
Tech troubleshooting tips
If you run into issues connecting to your video visit, try these steps in order:
- Check browser permissions: In your browser's address bar, look for a camera icon and make sure camera and microphone access are allowed for the site.
- Reload the page: A simple refresh resolves many transient connection issues.
- Try a different browser: Chrome and Edge tend to have the most reliable WebRTC support. Safari on iPhone works but may require an extra permissions step.
- Close other tabs and apps using the camera: Only one application can access your camera at a time. Close video-calling apps (Zoom, Teams, FaceTime) and extra browser tabs.
- Switch networks if possible: If your Wi-Fi is unstable, try mobile data, or vice versa.
- Restart your device: When in doubt, a restart clears most device-level permission caches.
If you cannot connect in time for your appointment, contact support through the platform — providers understand that tech issues happen and will work with you to reschedule or switch to an asynchronous format when appropriate.
Your privacy is protected
You have rights regarding your health information. These include the right to access your records, request corrections, and understand how your data is used. Review your full patient rights at any time.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need to create an account before booking a video visit?
- Yes. You will set up a secure account as part of the booking process. This is how your visit records, prescriptions, and messages are kept private and accessible only to you and your care team.
- What states are video visits available in?
- PrescriberNow matches you with a board-certified provider licensed in your state, so your video visit is handled by someone authorized to practice where you live. Your provider will be licensed in the state where you are physically located at the time of the visit.
- Can I use my phone instead of a computer?
- Yes. Video visits work on both Android and iOS devices using your mobile browser. No app download is required. Make sure your front-facing camera is unobstructed and your browser has permission to access it.
- What if I need a prescription but the provider decides not to prescribe?
- PrescriberNow providers are licensed clinicians, not prescription vending machines. If a medication is not clinically appropriate for your situation — due to a contraindication, a drug interaction, or a clinical judgment call — the provider will decline to prescribe and will explain why. They may suggest alternatives or refer you to a more appropriate level of care. This is a feature, not a limitation.
- Can I get a prescription for a controlled substance on a video visit?
- Federal and state regulations govern the prescribing of controlled substances via telemedicine and vary by medication and circumstances. Some controlled substances require an in-person evaluation before they can be prescribed remotely. Your provider will advise you on what is and is not possible for your specific situation during the visit.
This article is general health information, not medical advice. Always talk to a licensed clinician about your specific situation. PrescriberNow connects you with board-certified providers licensed in your state; prescriptions are issued only when clinically appropriate.