24/7 virtual care: What you need to know

Across the U.S., you can now get care by phone or online from a Kaiser Permanente clinician anytime. Here’s what you need to know.

What is virtual care? 

With our 24/7 virtual care option, you can visit with a Kaiser Permanente clinician by phone or online for certain conditions — without an appointment. 

When should I try 24/7 virtual care?

Phone and video visits are appropriate when you need quick, convenient care that doesn’t require immediate hands-on assistance from a health care professional. Examples include a urinary tract infection, pink eye, cold and flu, and other conditions where a clinician can virtually diagnose, recommend treatment, order prescriptions, and provide guidance about follow-up care.

Availability depends on your symptoms, location, and the number of health care professionals who can meet your needs.

What if I’m having an emergency?

Virtual care isn’t appropriate for urgent or emergency health needs. If you think you or someone you care for is having a medical or mental health emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Don’t attempt to access emergency care through this site.

What types of care options are offered? 

With our 24/7 virtual care option, you may be able to have a phone or video visit with a clinician. If these options aren’t appropriate or available, you’ll be able to start an e-visit, make an appointment, or find a nearby urgent care location.

Can I speak to a clinician if I’m away from home?

Yes, 24/7 virtual care from a Kaiser Permanente clinician is available across the U.S.¹ If you’re traveling internationally, you can call the Away from Home Travel Line at 951-268-3900 for support — anytime, anywhere.² For TTY support, call 1-800-735-2929 (English) or 1-800-855-3000 (español).   

What are the minimum technical requirements for a video visit? 

Your device should have a working video camera, microphone, and speakers. You’ll also need a strong, secure internet connection using Wi-Fi or a wired internet connection. Before your video visit begins, try to free up devices in your home. Your video quality may be affected if other people are online — especially if they’re using streaming services, like watching videos or playing video games.

Will the virtual visit be with my doctor? 

An unscheduled virtual visit will connect you to a Kaiser Permanente clinician, but they probably won’t be your personal doctor. However, the details of your visit will be documented in your electronic health record, so your doctor can access them. If you have continuing care needs after your virtual visit, you can follow up with your care team. 

 

 

Disclaimers

¹When appropriate and available. Phone appointments and video visits may not be available in select states due to licensing laws. Laws differ by state. 

²This number can be dialed from both inside and outside the United States. Before the phone number, dial “001” for landlines and “+1” for mobile lines if you’re outside the country. Long-distance charges may apply, and we can’t accept collect calls. The phone line is closed on major holidays (New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, July Fourth, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas). It closes early the day before a holiday at 10 p.m. Pacific time (PT), and it reopens the day after a holiday at 4 a.m. PT.