TABLE OF CONTENTS
PlushCare — Best Overall Online Doctor
PlushCare offers insured and non-insured individuals access to affordable, convenient, and personalized care for urgent and ongoing medical conditions.
BetterHelp — Best for Online Therapy
BetterHelp provides online therapy services to individuals, couples, and teens via video, phone, messaging, and live chat.
Sesame — Best Price-Per-Visit Online Doctor
Sesame aims to make quality healthcare accessible and affordable to all by connecting you with online doctors and other providers via in-person and video visits.
JustAnswer — Best Online Doctor for Quick Answers
Patients can use JustAnswer to instantly connect with experts for quick, easy answers to urgent healthcare concerns and questions.
WellTheory — Best for Autoimmune Care
WellTheory offers nutrition and lifestyle coaching specifically tailored to people living with medical conditions impacting their autoimmune systems.
Hims — Best Online Doctor for Men’s Health
A one-stop shop for health and wellness specifically for men, Hims has easy, online access to online doctor consultations and treatments for a variety of needs.
Lemonaid Primary Care Complete — Best Online Doctor for Insurance Coverage
Lemonaid Primary Care Complete takes a new approach to primary healthcare, offering comprehensive, personalized, fully online care for individuals and families.
Amwell — Best Online Doctor for Women’s Health
In addition to general health care services, Amwell provides comprehensive care for women’s issues.
Anytime Pediatrics — Best Online Doctor for Pediatrics
Anytime Pediatrics connects parents and their children to care with their regular pediatrician or another online doctor.
HealthTap — Best Online Doctor Subscription Plan
For a low monthly fee, HealthTap offers access to virtual visits with board-certified online doctors, prescription services, virtual storage for health records, and other resources.
We looked for key elements that make online doctor services safe, reliable, and effective. While cost is a major consideration when choosing an online medical service, we did not factor that into our methodology. Instead, we’ve provided options in a range of price points.
Part of what makes online doctors valuable is the variety of ways in which patients can communicate with health care providers. We prioritized services that offer multiple ways for patients to connect with their doctors, including video and phone chat, email, live chat, and text messaging.
The services available via telehealth run the gamut from simple Q&A consultations to treatment for ongoing health conditions. We focused on online doctor and medical services that offer patients a wide spectrum of care, including treatment for acute and chronic health issues mental and behavioral health care, preventative care, and prescription and lab services.
Another main perk of telehealth is how fast you can get an appointment with an online doctor. We sought out services that offer on-demand same-day appointments, as well as minimal wait times for appointments scheduled in advance.
All of the top nine online doctor and medical services for 2024 included on our list below are ranked on a score out of 100. Each score is based on factors including ease of use, convenience, technology, personalization, and an overall score.
PlushCare works with your established primary care physician and specialist. The service offers exams by appointment to complement the care you receive in person. Same-day appointments are frequently available.
Among the services that PlushCare offers are urgent care for acute illnesses and conditions, help with chronic conditions like diabetes and asthma, prescription refills, and STD testing. A PlushCare doctor can also order lab work for you and follow up with you once they receive the results.
Like many other online doctor and medical services, PlushCare requires patients to have a membership to use their services. The membership fee is $14.99 per month. This membership includes the ability to send unlimited in-app messages and book a same-day appointment. PlushCare also accepts most major health insurance coverage.
Cost | Accepts insurance | Other features |
Prices vary depending on insurance coverage. Membership: $14.99 |
Yes | – Care available 24/7/365 – Mobile app – Prescription services – More features at PlushCare |
Pros:
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Customers have high praise for PlushCare’s doctors and healthcare providers. “My physician is knowledgeable, understanding, empathetic, and everything else you need a doctor to be,” says one patient. Adds another user, “From the registration to the video chat, I couldn’t have asked for a more pleasant experience.”
Telehealth has also transformed access to mental health care. BetterHelp serves clients dealing with common mental and behavioral health issues including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addiction, self-esteem, and grief.
BetterHelp matches clients with a therapist from their roster of thousands of credentialed mental health professionals. Providers include psychologists, licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers, and marriage and family therapists. You can connect with your counselor via secure phone, video, or live chat for weekly sessions. You can also send unlimited email messages between sessions.
BetterHelp’s services are accessible via their website or mobile app. Couples and teens can access care through BetterHelp’s affiliates, Regain.us and TeenCounseling.com. BetterHelp does not accept insurance, but offers discounted rates for those who qualify for financial assistance.
Cost | Accepts insurance | Other features |
– $60-$80 per week (billed monthly) | No | – Mobile app – Financial assistance available – Multiple communication methods – More features at BetterHelp |
Pros:
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BetterHelp has established a loyal client base by providing convenient, compassionate care. “I was matched with a counselor who ended up giving me great direction in changing my life,” writes one user. “Even over the computer I felt heard and as if I was seeing my therapist in person.”
Sesame leverages technology to create a direct-to-patient healthcare marketplace that connects patients with quality doctors both virtually and in-person.
While anyone can use Sesame’s services, it is primarily designed for individuals who don’t have health insurance, or need to find affordable services because of high deductibles. Using Sesame, you’ll find doctors and providers for a variety of healthcare needs, including primary care, urgent care, dentistry, dermatology, and mental health care. You can search for providers locally or nationally for an in-person or video appointment. All healthcare providers in Sesame’s network are fully licensed and carefully vetted to ensure patients are getting top-notch care.
The pricing for services is transparent and affordable. You can pay using cash, credit, or a health savings account. Although Sesame does not accept payment from health insurance companies, you can submit receipts to your insurance company for reimbursement.
Cost | Accepts insurance | Other features |
– Video consultation: $25 to $55 – In-person visit: $37 to $110 |
No | – Telehealth and in-person services – Prescription services – Imaging services – More features at Sesame |
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According to customers, Sesame is living up to its mission of making healthcare more accessible and affordable for all. Writes one member, “I’ve used Sesame twice this year, and both doctors were great! Overall an amazing site for people with or without insurance.”
The internet can provide a wealth of information on just about any topic, including healthcare and medical advice, but it can be hard to know which answers are reliable. JustAnswer seeks to address those concerns with instant on-demand access to trusted online doctors.
JustAnswer is a subscription-based service that lets you ask unlimited questions to experts in a variety of different areas, including medicine and healthcare, law, home and car repairs, and veterinary services. Experts are carefully vetted and will communicate via phone, text message, or live chat to answer questions accurately and thoroughly. JustAnswer also gives you the option to upload documents and photos if necessary.
While JustAnswer cannot replace a primary care physician or emergency medical attention, it can be a quick, convenient way to get trustworthy medical advice when you can’t reach your PCP or need a second opinion.
Cost | Accepts insurance | Other features |
– Seven-day trial: $5 – Monthly subscription: $41 for unlimited questions |
No | – Mobile app – 7-day trial – 24/7/365 access – More features at JustAnswer |
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Customers praise JustAnswer for giving them quick, easy access to information they can trust. “So quick, easy, and helpful,” says one user of their JustAnswer experience. “In an instant I was able to text with a doctor when I couldn’t reach mine on the weekend. Very informative and professional.”
WellTheory is geared toward people living with autoimmune diseases and chronic illnesses. Each staff member has been trained to work with this specific population, and many have personal experience with autoimmunity and chronic health conditions.
WellTheory is meant to supplement — rather than replace — your medical care from your physician. First, you’ll complete a questionnaire to verify your medical condition is a good fit for this service. All you need to provide is your first name, state of residence, and symptoms you’ve been experiencing.
Once you’ve been approved for WellTheory, you’ll be able to schedule a free consultation with a specialist. Most coaching is centered around lifestyle and nutrition changes to help you better manage your symptoms. WellTheory measures improvements based on symptom reduction and biomarker improvement. If needed, you can also request testing for gut microbiome analysis, food sensitivities, and other physiological factors that play a role in autoimmune health.
A WellTheory membership includes two one-on-one sessions with your specialist each month, a personalized care plan, and access to relevant masterclasses, advanced testing, and discounted supplements. You can quit anytime, and you’ll receive a full refund within the first 30 days if you aren’t satisfied. WellTheory accepts payment from FSA and HSA credit and debit cards.
Cost | Accepts insurance | Other features |
– Monthly subscription: $125 | No | – Care available 24/7/365 – Optional testing – Extensive online resource library – More features at WellTheory |
Pros and Cons of WellTheory
Pros:
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In addition to testimonials from current members, you can also read the personal stories of WellTheory staff with autoimmune diseases and chronic illnesses. Licensed physicians also weigh in about the program’s benefits. “Autoimmune disease is an increasingly prevalent and debilitating pathology with few to no therapies that target the root causes behind the illness,” says Dr. Rob Abbott, M.D., who specializes in integrative medicine. “This program not only targets root disturbances present in many autoimmune conditions but also empowers patients with the knowledge and belief that change is possible.”
Scores:
Ease of use: 90/100
Convenience factor: 85/100
Technology: 80/100
Personalization: 90/100
Overall score: 85/100
Hims is a telehealth platform designed for men, by men. It aims to address common, specific men’s health issues including reproductive and sexual health, mental health, hair loss, and skin care.
While Hims doesn’t offer comprehensive health care, it is a good place to start if you’re seeking male-focused care from the privacy of home. It’s easy to set up an account with your medical history information and answers about your health and lifestyle. Hims will connect you with a licensed physician who can answer your questions and make recommendations for treatment.
If you need prescriptions for issues like erectile dysfunction or hair loss, Hims will deliver them directly to your door for free in discreet packaging.
While Hims does not accept insurance for consultations, prescriptions may be covered.
Cost | Accepts insurance | Other features |
–Consultation: $39 -Prescription costs vary |
Yes, for some prescriptions | – New prescriptions and refills – Primary care and men’s healthcare – Mobile app – More features at Hims |
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Hims customers like the service for being helpful and discreet. “Hims has been fantastic to deal with,” writes one user. “Great software, great medical personnel, and great customer service. Hims makes everything very private and easy to use. Product works and is very affordable.”
Lemonaid Primary Care Complete is a fresh approach to health care that aims to replace your traditional general practitioner.
With Lemonaid Primary Care Complete, you see the same online doctor each time. You’ll pay a flat subscription fee for individual and family plans. Once you sign up, services include a one-hour video consultation, unlimited same-day appointments, and unlimited calling and texting with your doctor in between visits.
Like a regular primary care physician, your Lemonaid Primary Care Complete online doctor can treat acute conditions like minor injuries and infections, as well as provide ongoing care for chronic conditions like blood pressure and allergies. They can also order blood work and lab tests, and prescribe medications as necessary.
Cost | Accepts insurance | Other features |
Individual plan: $99/month Family plan: $178/month |
Yes | – Care available 24/7/365 – Mobile app – Multiple languages – More features at Lemonaid Primary Care Complete |
Pros:
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According to many Lemonaid customers, they love the service for the high quality of care they receive. “My doctor treats me like I’m his only patient,” writes one user. “My doctor and his wonderful staff really care about me. I wish I had started utilizing this service sooner.”
Amwell is a comprehensive telehealth service that can supplement your primary healthcare. You can get on-demand healthcare by downloading the free Amwell mobile app and selecting an available online doctor. Within minutes, you will have a video consultation with a physician, where you can discuss your issue, and get recommendations for treatment or next steps. If you need a prescription, they can send the order to your local pharmacy.
Among the many healthcare issues that Amwell can help with are a variety of needs specific to women’s health. Amwell’s doctors can help you choose birth control, treat symptoms of PMS, postpartum depression, and menopause, and provide support for breastfeeding. For families, pediatric doctors are available to treat common childhood illnesses like pink eye, sore throat, and bronchitis.
Amwell accepts insurance from major providers, although specific plans determine exactly what is covered. You can seek treatment through Amwell even if you don’t have insurance.
Cost | Accepts insurance | Other features |
Urgent care: $79 Therapy (master’s degree): $99 Therapy (PhD): $110 Psychiatry (initial visit): $269 Psychiatry (follow-up): $99 |
Yes | – Care available 24/7/365 – Mobile app – Prescription services – More features at Amwell |
Pros:
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Amwell customers appreciate the service for helping them with a range of medical concerns, including weight loss, prescription refills, and psychiatry. Writes one user, “I have used Amwell many times and every time has been a good experience. This last time using them actually prevented me from going to the hospital.”
When your child is sick, the last thing you want to do is drag them to a waiting room in a doctor’s office or emergency room. With Anytime Pediatrics, you can access an online doctor for your child with pediatric-specific telehealth services for ages birth to 21.
Online health services are available 24/7. Anytime Pediatrics connects you with either your primary pediatrician, or another on-call, board-certified pediatrician, via the website or mobile app. Through video visits, Anytime Pediatrics’ physicians can treat a variety of non-emergency conditions common in babies, children, and adolescents, including allergies, rashes, respiratory illnesses, nausea, diarrhea, minor abrasions, mental and, behavioral health.
If prescriptions are needed, pediatric clinicians may call in orders to your local pharmacy. They can also provide notes for school for excused absences.
Online doctors on Anytime Pediatrics accept most major health insurance plans. Some providers offer a flat fee or cash pay option if you don’t have health insurance.
Cost | Accepts insurance | Other features |
– Costs vary with insurance coverage. | Yes | – Treats children ages birth to 21 – Sick notes – More features at Anytime Pediatrics |
Pros:
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According to many Anytime Pediatrics users, this service has saved them from unnecessary doctor visits on multiple occasions. “This service is wonderful,” writes one user. “I was able to get medical advice in the late hours of the night without having to drag my sick baby to the emergency room.”
HealthTap is an affordable telehealth membership service. It gives you access to online doctors and healthcare guidance to supplement your primary care physician.
For just $10 per month, HealthTap offers access to unlimited virtual consultations 24/7 via video or live chat. You can get advice and treatment recommendations for various acute or primary care needs. The service also offers prescriptions, doctor’s notes for excused absences from work or school, and referrals for specialists.
A HealthTap membership includes access to a searchable database of thousands of answers from doctors, secure storage for personal health records, and HealthTap’s AI feature, which can guide you to the right level of care with answers to a few simple questions.
HealthTap is accessible via their website, or by downloading their mobile app, which is available for iOS and Android.
Cost | Accepts insurance | Other features |
– $10/month | Yes | – 24/7/365 access – Mobile app – Sick notes – More features at Health Tap |
Pros:
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HealthTap’s users praise the service for providing a quick, convenient connection with on-demand care. “HealthTap got me in touch with a doctor in a smooth and seamless way,” says one user. Another user says, “They provided me with information that gave me comfort in my diagnosis. Glad to have a reliable application like HealthTap.”
Online doctor visit costs vary depending on the service. Some online medical services charge a monthly subscription fee for unlimited access, while others charge per visit. Consultations typically start at $25 and monthly memberships at $10.
Many online doctors can write prescriptions. Some online medical services offer prescriptions delivered to your door, while others can send prescriptions electronically to your local pharmacy for pickup.
You may see the phrases telehealth and telemedicine used interchangeably, but they mean different things. Telemedicine refers specifically to clinical services provided remotely. Telehealth includes the use of telecommunications for clinical and non-clinical purposes, like education and administration.
Many online doctor and medical services provide both telehealth and telemedicine services, including prescription management, urgent care, check-ups, mental health care, and more. Most online medical services seek to supplement in-person doctor visits by allowing patients to ask questions or diagnose common health issues from home. With the scope of what’s possible via telemedicine constantly widening, there is much speculation about how this innovation will affect in-person care going forward.
The Federation of State Medical Boards, which regulates physicians and healthcare professionals in the U.S., sets policies regarding what kind of licensure a doctor needs to provide care online, and in which states they need to be licensed. These policies are continuously updated, both in response to evolving telemedicine practices, and to address more immediate concerns, like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Much of the current news about online doctors and medical services focuses on their increasing prevalence and popularity. This has grown significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, as doctors and patients have been looking for ways to limit in-person contact as much as possible.