Can care start with messages?
As of September 2026, the group representing state medical boards recommends allowing first visits by live call or messages. The visit must still meet the standard for proper medical care.
These are recommendations to state boards, the agencies that oversee doctors. Your state sets the rule the doctor must follow. Before starting with messages, ask the service whether that visit is allowed in the state where you will be.
Why do they ask where I am?
As of September 2026, federal health guidance says the health professional needs a licence or other permission for the state where the patient is located.
The place you sit for the visit matters, including when you travel.
Tell the service where you will be before the visit starts.
What if a screen is not enough?
Medical-board guidance says that if a distant visit cannot give enough information, the health professional should arrange the needed tests or an in-person exam. They may send you to another health professional for that care.
Ask where that next part would happen and who would review the result.