Yes and the physical symptoms of stress are different from person to person. If you’re stressed you may experience headache, back pain, and stomach discomfort. These symptoms can appear as a result of short- or long-term stress. Regardless of how long your symptoms have been affecting you, it’s always okay to seek support.

Speech therapy activities aim to improve a person’s ability to communicate by practicing communication skills. There are a number of different forms of therapy activities, including use of apps, paper-based booklets, in-person group therapy, and popular word games.

In group therapy, people with aphasia can practice a number of day-to-day activities, for example initiating conversations, speaking in turn, and clarifying misunderstandings. Other group therapies emphasize ways to communicate without speaking, including using props to communicate a message to someone else or drawing pictures.

Fibromyalgia affects woman more often than men, but it’s been found that men reported more severe symptoms than women. Women may experience the following symptoms:

1. Cognitive and memory problems
2. Trouble sleeping
3. Headaches
4. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
5. Restless leg syndrome (RLS)
6. Numbness
7. Morning stiffness

The virus is most commonly spread through respiratory droplets between people who are in close contact — within about 6 feet of each other. Respiratory droplets are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can be inhaled into the lungs or land on the skin of someone nearby who then spreads it when they touch their face or mouth. While reports of spread occurring from people without symptoms has been reported, this is believed to be uncommon.[1]

Different stretches and exercises are recommended for upper and lower back pain. Exercises to aid in the management of lower back pain include:

• Bridges: Lie on your back with feet on the floor and knees pointing to the sky. Lift your hips up and hold position for five seconds before releasing.
• Lower back rotation: Begin lying on your back with your feet on the floor and knees pointing to the sky. Roll knees to one side of the body, hold for 10 seconds, repeat on the other side.
• Abdominal contractions: Begin lying on your back with your feet on the floor and knees pointing to the sky, contract abs and lift chest to the sky. Hold for five seconds.

ALS symptoms are progressive meaning the symptoms get worse over time and often develop very quickly. That said there are some cases in which symptoms, such as difficulty swallowing, can get better for a period of time.

Early signs of Parkinson’s disease will often only occur on one side of the body. They may include trembling hands, stiffness in the arms and legs, slowness of movement, and poor balance and coordination.

Early signs of the disease include memory loss that affects daily life; difficulty solving problems; trouble reading, judging distance, and determining color or contrast; misplacing things; and changes in mood or personality.

Vertigo symptoms will vary depending on the type. For Meniere's disease, vertigo symptoms can range from 20 minutes to 24 hours. Meanwhile, for BPPV, symptoms can last up to a week or longer.

Make sure you speak to a doctor if your headache:

• Feels different than usual
• Is aggravated by exertion, coughing, bending over, or sexual activity
• Is associated with another symptom, including nausea, fever, or recent head trauma

There are two main types of narcolepsy - narcolepsy with cataplexy and narcolepsy without cataplexy. You may ask, what is cataplexy? Cataplexy is a sudden and uncontrollable muscle weakness or paralysis that is often triggered by a strong emotion, such as excitement or laughter.

People who experience cataplexy as one of their narcolepsy symptoms often times have low levels of hypocretin, while those who do not experience cataplexy symptoms have normal levels of hypocretin. Hypocretin, also known as orexin, is a brain chemical that regulates arousal, wakefulness and apptetite.

All of Amwell’s services are available without insurance. Your visit will be charged to your credit card. Visits vary depending on service/specialty, but urgent care visits start at just $79.

In the practice of telehealth, the child should be present during the visit. The patient’s appearance, particularly with children, is critical to differentiate between “sick” and “not sick.” Occasionally, the parent may want to talk in private with the physician and likewise, the provider may want to speak to the child without the parent. It is highly recommended all children are seen using video, however for those states that do not require video to prescribe, the decision to prescribe in this situation is at the sole discretion of the physician. Additionally, children need to have their own account to have a visit online - they cannot be seen under a parent account.

Unfortunately, doctors haven’t proven the exact cause of fibromyalgia. However, the cause of fibromyalgia most likely involves a variety of the following factors:

• Genetics
• Some specific infections
• Physical or emotional trauma

There is no proven cause of Type 2 diabetes. The condition is linked to being overweight, but not everybody with Type 2 diabetes is overweight. Genetic and environmental factors may also play a role.

Early signs of ALS can include difficulty walking, tripping and falling, hand weakness, slurred speech, trouble swallowing, difficulty keeping good posture, or muscle cramps.

When one experiences urine leaks from pressure on your bladder. This can be caused by coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercising, or lifting something heavy.

Some home remedies include the use of warm and cold packs on muscles to alleviate leg pain and aches. Other treatments include doing moderate exercise every day, meditating, and sticking to a strict sleeping schedule.

Bursitis is caused by inflammation of the bursa, which is a fluid-filled sac that provides lubrication between the muscles, bones, and tendons near the joint. Trochanteric bursitis is a type of bursitis, which predominantly affects the hip. The trochanteric bursa is a fluid-filled sac that is located near the hip, thighs, and buttock. Symptoms of this type of bursitis include limping, hip pain, and swelling in the region.

People with anorexia and bulimia both are fixated on obtaining a thin figure, but people who have anorexia do so by limiting their food intake to an unhealthy degree. While people with bulimia may limit their food intake, they will also binge eat, but will purge whatever they’ve consumed.

Some physical complications of anorexia include anemia, bone loss, absence of a period in women, low testosterone in men, heart problems. Someone with anorexia may also experience mental side effects, including depression, anxiety, alcohol and drug abuse, and suicide.

Essential tremor is a condition that causes uncontrollable shaking in different parts of the body, including the arms, hands, voice box (larynx), tongue, and chin. While an essential tremor often affect the voice and head, head tremors are uncommon in Parkinson’s. Additionally, essential tremor tends to worsen when a part of the body is in motion, while Parkinson’s-related tremors decrease when the body is in motion.

If someone with celiac disease consumes a food or drink with gluten, their immune system will react negatively and begin to damage the small intestine. Eventually this leads to malabsorption of nutrients, but in the short term, that person may experience an upset stomach, belching, diarrhea, or other symptoms.

Aphasia and dysarthria are both caused by trauma to the brain, like stroke, brain injury, or a tumor. Aphasia occurs when someone has difficulty comprehending speech, while dysarthria is characterized by difficulty controlling the muscles used for speech.

When someone experiences cystic acne, it’s important they stick to a regular skin care routine that includes specialized soaps, moisturizers, and toners. Other remedies include icing the acne so that the blood vessels will contract, avoiding popping the pimples, and regularly washing all items that may touch your face including your towels and pillowcases.

Generally speaking, refills or bridge prescriptions are available from your Amwell physician with an online video visit. In those states that allow it, new prescriptions for non-controlled medications (Birth Control medications usually are not controlled substances) may be prescribed at the discretion of your Amwell physician. The physician will make that determination after conducting your online exam and obtaining information from you such as the timing and results of your last lab tests, and when you last had a physical exam. More information is available in the FAQs on our Prescriptions page that offer further clarification.

Yes, it can improve your ability to manage birth control methods and has other advantages as well. In addition to making you more accountable for following your plan for birth control methods, telemedicine also establishes a long-term relationship between you and your physician, which encourages better supervision of your reproductive options, provides you with the most recent methods and treatments, and encourages you to make better choices. The use of telemedicine also helps empower patients to take control not only of their birth control regimen, but also their overall health.

This is a type of asthma that is caused by a narrowing of the airways in the lungs due to strenuous exercise. This can cause symptoms including wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and others.

A majority of women experience pelvic pain at some point during their pregnancy. Oftentimes, women experience pelvic pain in the first trimester, but can also experience pain throughout their pregnancy and into the third trimester.

Amwell is an affordable, convenient way to resolve routine medical conditions. Our secure technology makes it possible to see a doctor, face to face, without you having to leave your home on your smartphone, desktop or telephone. With video, providers can look, listen and engage with you to diagnose your health concerns and provide an effective treatment plan.

While there isn’t an established relationship between fibromyalgia and IBS, oftentimes, symptoms for the two diseases overlap. Fibromyalgia is a nervous system disorder and IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder, but both conditions are associated with a hypersensitivity to pain. While hypersensitivity for people with fibromyalgia is in their skin and muscles, hypersensitivity for IBS is in their intestines.

Your Amwell physician can learn a lot about your diabetes from vital signs, but obviously is not able to take them during the visit. Having current vital sign results will make the online session more effective. Examples of vital signs you should provide to your Amwell physician include: most recent Hemoglobin A1c; a range of your recent blood glucose levels for morning, before lunch, before dinner and bedtime; and most recent blood pressure.

• A sunken soft spot on their head
• Excessive sleepiness or fussiness
• Dehydration
  • Decreased urination – more than 6 hours without a wet diaper
  • Wrinkled skin
  • Dry lips
  • Crying without tears
  • Extreme thirst

The recommended diet for people who have diabetes is to limit foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates. Another diet option for people with diabetes includes a diet with smaller portions throughout the day that include a variety of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

One in four Americans is affected by emotional distress at some time in life, but only one in eight seeks care. From chronic concerns such as depression and anxiety, to recent stress caused by events such as grief, divorce, childbirth/parenthood, menopause, or other major life changes, online therapy allows for reliable and convenient therapy visits with licensed and highly trained therapists.

Here are a few reasons people go online to see a therapist:

No. The cost is the same no matter when you visit with a registered dietitian/nutritionist.

More research is needed to make official claims about fibromyalgia, but a few studies show that fibromyalgia is a genetic disease.

The Ryan Haight Online Pharmacy Consumer Protection Act was created in the late 1990’s to combat internet pharmacies that were selling controlled substances online. The Act took effect on April 13, 2009 and the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) issued regulations effective on the same date. This Act imposed a federal prohibition on form-only online prescribing for controlled substances.

Yes, in fact, a number of studies have been conducted to study the ability of telemedicine to help patients achieve better diabetes self-management. A study published in the Diabetes Journal, was conducted in South Carolina and followed patients with diabetes; some were followed through a telemedicine program, while others were followed in the usual way, through on-site physician follow-ups. Those followed through on-site follow ups saw only a two percent reduction in their Hemoglobin A1c levels, while the average A1c of those in the telemedicine decreased by almost 12 percent. Subjects in the telemedicine group also experienced greater weight loss and improvements in their LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels.

Guttate psoriasis is the second-most common type of psoriasis – about 10% of people will develop this type. This form of psoriasis typically appears as small, dot-like lesions. The condition will most likely begin in childhood or young adulthood and can be triggered by a strep infection.

Endometriosis may make it difficult to conceive a child. About half of women with endometriosis report difficulty getting pregnant. Through it may be challenging to conceive, women who are experiencing infertility as a result of endometriosis will still be able to conceive with the correct treatments.

Telemedicine is an area of telehealth. It involves practicing medicine using
communication technologies between a doctor in one location and a patient in
another location.

If you have any other type of psoriasis except for plaque, then the scales must be removed with gentle washing, so topical medications can penetrate the skin. If you have plaque psoriasis, it is recommended that you do not remove the scales because bleeding may occur which will actually activate the condition.

Generally speaking, refills or bridge prescriptions are available from your Amwell physician with an online video visit; however, in those states that allow it, new prescriptions for non-controlled medications (diabetes medications are not controlled substances) may be prescribed at the discretion of your Amwell physician, who will make that determination after conducting your online exam and obtaining information from you such as the timing and results of your last lab tests, and when you last had a physical exam. More information is available in the FAQs on our Prescriptions resource page that offer further clarification.

Yes, some people who have bipolar disorders may have hallucinations and see or hear things that are not present. This can occur during an episode of mania or depression.

The first time you use a virtual doctor visit provider you will need to set up an account with that virtual doctor visit provider group. You will need to complete the patient registration process to gather medical history, pharmacy preference, primary care physician contact information and insurance information. Before your first visit, you may be asked for your credit card information.

Each time you have a virtual doctor visit you will be asked some brief medical questions, including questions about your current medical concern. If appropriate, you will then be connected, using secure, live audio and video technology, to a doctor licensed to deliver care in the state that you are in at the time of your visit. You and the doctor will discuss your medical issue, and if appropriate, the doctor may write a prescription* for you.

The details of your virtual doctor visit will be documented by the doctor and are available to you on the virtual doctor visit provider group's site so that you can review and share with your primary care physician.

*Prescription services may not be available in all states.

• Viral gastroenteritis
• Bacterial gastroenteritis
• Amebic dysentery
• Bacillary dysentery

The AHA suggests that people focus on eating nutritious food from all of the food groups, including fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, poultry or fish, nuts and legumes, and vegetable oils.

Fibromyalgia is not considered an autoimmune disease. There are many unknowns about this condition and as a result, more research needs to be compiled before fibromyalgia can be classified as autoimmune.

There are many studies showing there is a chance that humans and dogs can give each other noroviruses, otherwise commonly known as the stomach virus. Noroviruses can be caused by contaminated food or water, an infected person, or touching contaminated surfaces. It has not been proven yet that canines can give stomach flu to humans. Although, it is very likely, as there have been many cases when canines and their owners have had stomach flu at the same time.

If just the male partner travels to an area with Zika, it’s recommended he waits six months before trying to conceive. If it’s just the female partner, the couple should wait two months. If both partners travel to an area with prevalence of Zika, the couple should wait six months.

There are many things that can be eaten to help with the stomach flu, but foods that are known to help alleviate symptoms include:

• Bananas
• Rice
• Applesauce
• Toast

It is VITAL to your well-being that you to manage and control your diabetes. Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States, and puts you at a much greater risk for stroke, blindness, kidney disease, heart disease, and limb amputations.

Pregnancy can be tough on a woman’s back. Back pain during pregnancy typically occurs in the area of a woman’s back where the pelvis meets the spine, also known as the sacroiliac joint. Some causes of pregnancy-related back pain include weight gain, posture changes, hormone changes, and muscle separation. To treat back pain related to pregnancy, it’s recommended that women maintain regular exercise, apply heat and cold to the region, and improve posture.

Yes, you can get a prescription online. There is support for this nationwide, however there are several exceptions. Learn more on our prescriptions page.

There are a few home remedies you can try to help with pain caused by fibromyalgia:

1. Exercise
2. Yoga and meditation
3. Acupuncture
4. Massage
5. Omega-3 fatty acids
6. Apple cider vinegar
7. Tumeric

This is a severe type of psoriasis that leads to widespread, fiery redness over most of the body. This condition can cause severe itching, pain and the skin can come off in sheets. Erythrodermic psoriasis typically appears on people who have unstable plaque psoriasis and is rare, occurring in only 3% of people who have psoriasis during their lifetime.

Illness or injury can strike at any time. Amwell helps you get back on your feet, no matter where you are or the time of day. You can see a doctor online for a range of issues, from minor illnesses and injuries, symptoms from a chronic condition, or to address general health concerns. Here are a few reasons people go online to see a doctor:

Narcolepsy can be inherited, but for the most part, this condition is not hereditary. A majority of cases of narcolepsy are sporadic, which means the condition will develop in someone with no family history of narcolepsy.

It isn’t about which is better; it’s about availability and access. Ideally, everyone would have unlimited access to personalized healthcare, but we do not live in an ideal world. Telemedicine bridges those instances when distance, access, and special needs interfere with the provision of healthcare and preventative measures, like diabetes management.

Yes, we feel it is of utmost importance to maintain patient privacy and keep information secure. Amwell is designed to be a private, secure, HIPAA-compliant tool that allows you to safely and confidentially consult with a doctor online.

It isn’t about which is better; it’s about availability and access. Ideally, everyone would have unlimited access to personalized healthcare, but we do not live in an ideal world. Telemedicine bridges those instances when distance, access, and special needs interfere with the provision of healthcare, preventative measures, and long-term management of birth control measures.

Pregnant woman are more likely than the general population to get restless leg syndrome. Pregnant women may develop restless leg syndrome as a result of folic acid deficiency, iron deficiency, or hormonal changes.

Subclinical hypothyroidism is a mild version of hypothyroidism and the term is used to describe a somewhat underactive thyroid. Subclinical hypothyroidism is also known as early-stage hypothyroidism. Only a very small percentage of people who have subclinical hypothyroidism eventually develop hypothyroidism.

Inverse psoriasis will typically appear in body folds, like behind the knee, under the arm or in the groin. Usually, it will appear as very red lesions that are smooth and shiny. It is common for people with inverse psoriasis to develop another type of psoriasis elsewhere on the body at the same time.

Less frequent causes of confusion include an infection in the brain or its lining, an imbalance of salts and minerals in the blood, underactive thyroid gland, vitamin B1 deficiency, Cushing’s disease, and an epileptic seizure.

It’s suggested that people with endometriosis eat a diet that aims to reduce internal inflammation in the body and improve response to pain. This includes foods rich in vitamin B, fiber, omega fatty acids, and iron.

For someone who lives with headaches, headache hygiene is the practice of making lifestyle changes that will help prevent headaches. There are a number of triggers for headaches that fall into seven categories: dietary, chronobiological (headaches that occur at a specific time of day), environmental, hormonal, stress, stress letdown, and physical. The first step is to identify what triggers affect your headache and then establish daily routines that lessen the frequency of these triggers.

Although Parkinson’s is typically diagnosed in people over 60 years old, young onset Parkinson’s disease (YOPD) can develop in someone who is 50 years old or even younger. A majority of the symptoms and treatments are similar for the two conditions, but there may be differences in the overall course of the disease.

Yes, we feel it is of utmost importance to maintain patient privacy and keep information secure. Amwell is designed to be a private, secure, HIPAA-compliant tool that allows you to safely and confidentially consult with a doctor online.

Once you have received a diagnosis from your online provider, they may talk to you about how online prescriptions work. At the beginning of your visit, you will be guided to pick a pharmacy. If your provider decides to give you a prescription, then your medication will be available at the pharmacy of your choosing and all you have to do is pick it up at your earliest convenience – it’s that easy!

Certain supplements are supposed to contribute to heart health. These include fiber, sterols and stanols (found in nuts and grains), coenzyme Q10, fish oil, and garlic.

Home remedies for headaches include:

• Resting
• Drinking water
• Identifying stressful situations that may be contributing to the headache and mitigating those stressors
• Massaging the area experiencing pain
• Taking over-the-counter pain medication in moderation

In this model, there is more responsible oversight of controlled substance prescriptions, which is important due to their potential for addiction and the risks of combining controlled substances with other medications. Controlled substances being prescribed by more than one provider is a common occurrence, but can easily be avoided by us collaborating with your primary care provider. When appropriate, we will provide our recommendations to them and request that they prescribe you these types of medications in order to help avoid duplication of prescriptions, excessive use of the medications, and medication conflicts.

Conditions requiring a physical examination will need to be seen in person. Many diagnoses and treatment plans can be started online, however physical examinations or lab tests may be recommended for irregular bleeding, yeast infections, and hemorrhoids. Your online provider can provide counseling for typical presentations of endometriosis, vulvodynia, and pelvic pain however for more unusual or severe cases you may be referred for an in-person examination.

This page offers general health information to facilitate discussion with your telemedicine provider. Every patient is different, so your treatment will be personalized just for you. Providers may recommend different treatment options or in-person care. When you see a clinician on Amwell, you will receive a diagnosis and treatment in a matter of minutes so you can get back to feeling well.

Through Amwell, on your computer or smartphone, a licensed allergist of your choice can address common allergy questions and concerns, from the privacy and comfort of your own home. Amwell’s allergy services are available in select states.

Sleep apnea and narcolepsy are very different conditions. The only similarity is that they are chronic sleep disorders. While narcolepsy affects how well someone can control their sleep patterns, sleep apnea occurs when there are repeated pauses in breathing during sleep.

Yes, in general you can get a prescription online. There is support for this nationwide, however there are several exceptions, see the FAQs below to learn more about these exceptions.

People with hypothyroidism should avoid certain foods including soy, iodine-rich foods, iron and calcium supplements, high-fiber foods, and certain vegetables that are high in fiber. Outside of those restrictions, people are encouraged to eat a nutrient-rich diet that emphasizes fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants as well as foods that are good sources for selenium and tyrosine.

People most often develop ALS between the ages of 40 and 70, but there are still cases of the disease developing in people who are in their 20's and 30's. The average age for diagnosis is 55.

The life expectancy of Crohn’s disease is not reduced by the condition as long as that person keeps their symptoms in check. Even when symptoms aren’t manifesting, someone with Crohn’s is at risk of colorectal cancer, deep vein thrombosis, or other complications. As long as someone with Crohn’s maintains regular check-ups, they should expect the same lifespan as someone without the condition.

Zika was first discovered in 1947 on a captive, rhesus monkey. Scientists conducting a routine survelliance for yellow fever in the Zika forest of Uganda intially discovered the virus.

Doing Brandt-Daroff exercises will help with vertigo symptoms, especially for people who have benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and labyrinthitis. The Brandt-Daroff exercise involves starting in an upright, seated position. From there, lay down on one side of the body with your nose pointed slightly up, remain in this position for 30 seconds, and then repeat on the other side. This exercise can help the body get accustomed to confusing signals that cause vertigo.

To check whether or not someone is experiencing confusion, ask the person his or her first name, age, and the date. If someone is confused, always introduce yourself, even if you know this person well. Remind this person of his or her location, place a calendar or clock near the person, and talk about current events or plans for the day. Aim to keep the surroundings quiet and peaceful.

Yes, asthma can be hereditary, though there is some nuance to this question. Children whose parents have asthma are more likely to develop the condition, but oftentimes passing on genes is not the only factor. Other considerations include environmental factors, gender, and allergen sensitivities.

Mosquitoes, specifically an Aedes species mosquito (the same mosquitoes that spread dengue and chikungunya), spread the virus through bites. If a mosquito bites someone with Zika and then bites another person, it’ll pass along the virus through the bloodstream.

• Arkansas
• Colorado
• District of Columbia
• Hawaii
• Illinois
• Kansas
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Minnesota

Symptoms of gastroenteritis will usually appear one to three days after exposure. Although, you’re contagious before you develop symptoms and up to two weeks after you’ve recovered.

People with narcolepsy do not necessarily experience sleep stages the way someone without narcolepsy does. While someone without the condition will first enter non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and eventually fall into rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, someone with narcolepsy falls immediately into REM sleep.

Olecranon bursitis is a type of bursitis that specifically affects the elbow. Oftentimes the first sign of olecranon bursitis is swelling, followed by pain and sometimes an infection. Similar to bursitis, olecranon bursitis may occur as a result of trauma to the area, prolonged pressure on the elbow, infection, or underlying medical conditions like arthritis and gout.

Certain lifestyle changes may help lessen the symptoms of vertigo. These include stress management, yoga and tai chi, an adequate amount of sleep, hydration, and vitamin D.

The most common allergic reactions that trigger asthma are allergies caused by inhalation. These include pollen, dust mites, animal dander, and mold. However, food allergens may also trigger an asthma attack, but this is very rare.

Cold sores are not the same as canker sores. Cold sores are a form of herpes, herpes simplex type 1. The sore is fluid-filled, painful, and located outside the mouth around the lips. These sores are also very contagious. Canker sores are ulcers that develop inside the mouth. These sores make eating and talking uncomfortable. They are typically caused by stress or an injury to the tissue inside the mouth.

The first step to helping someone who is struggling with anorexia is to understand that it is a complex condition and should be handled sensitively. Just telling someone to “eat more” isn’t the answer.

One of the best ways to help someone who is struggling with anorexia is to provide ongoing support. When speaking with someone that is struggling with anorexia or any eating disorder for that matter, it's important to have conversations in private and be patient if your friend and/or loved one responds with denial.

While there are no home remedies that would help someone control their hypothyroidism, there are many alternative treatments that may manage the symptoms. One remedy is to avoid certain foods that may impact the effectiveness of the treatment, such as soy, iodine-rich foods, iron and calcium supplements, and high-fiber foods. Other treatments that could help manage hypothyroid symptoms include acupuncture, yoga, and meditation.

There are a number of lifestyle changes that can be made to improve acid reflux symptoms. The most effective remedy is avoiding food that may trigger acid reflux, including chocolate, tomato, mint, garlic, onions, or spicy foods. Other actions that help with acid reflux are eating smaller meals more frequently, quitting smoking, eating more than a few hours before lying down, and avoiding tight clothes.

Stomach flu and food poisoning are very similar conditions, while initial symptoms typically include fever and diarrhea. But a stomach virus can take 24 to 48 hours to develop and can have other symptoms, including:

• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Stomach or intestinal cramps
• Joint stiffness
• Weight loss

Prescription refills are ordered at the physician’s discretion and require an online visit with video. Refill visits require a full medical evaluation. Patients receiving refills online are required to have an annual visit with their primary care physician or more frequently as determined by the online physician.

Yes, men who experience pelvic pain may have prostatitis, a condition in which the prostate is inflamed or infected. This can lead to painful urination or ejaculation.

The use of electronic information and telecommunication technologies for long-distance
healthcare. Common telehealth technologies include computers and mobile
devices.

Some substances that trigger an allergic reaction include pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, food, insects bites, and medicines.

An initial 45-minutes consultation with a psychiatrist costs $269, compared with the average national cost of $400. Follow-up 15-minute consultations cost $99. We recommend scheduling an initial consultation with our tem of psychiatrists for an appropriate assessment and treatment protocol.

A majority of pregnant women deal with acid reflux or GERD at some point during their pregnancy. There are certain hormones that come with pregnancy and they can cause the digestive system to slow down. Therefore the muscles that push food down the esophagus also move slower. This, combined with a growing uterus, can push on the stomach and can cause acid to travel back up the esophagus.

When an Amwell physician determines you need a change in medication, he or she may prescribe a “bridge prescription.” A bridge prescription is an order for a limited supply of medication – usually enough for 15 to 30 days – that will cover your needs until you can see your primary care physician and receive a physical examination to determine if the medication is right for you and if a longer-lasting supply is warranted.

The flu typically lasts for one to two weeks. Severe symptoms usually set in after two or three days. You may experience symptoms of weakness, dry cough, and/or fatigue, which can linger for three to seven days.

Some complications that may arise after developing Alzheimer’s including the inability to communicate if he or she is experiencing pain, follow a treatment plan, report medication side effects, describe or notice symptoms of another condition.

Yes, Zika-infected mosquitoes have to bite you to give you the virus.

Prescribing is at the sole discretion of your physician. Often times, someone will receive a prescription but that medication will be available in multiple forms. If the medication your provider prescribed is not covered by your insurance, then you may be issued a different medication with the same purpose that is covered by insurance.

If you have questions about your prescription, please reach out to our 24/7 support line at support@americanwell.com or call 877-410-5548. Keep in mind that you can also review the notes section from your visit in your account on Amwell.

Visits cost $70, and may be even less as some insurance companies cover telehealth visits. Contact your Human Resources department or health insurance company to see if your visit is covered.

People with Alzheimer’s often experience significant changes in behavior in the late afternoon and early evening, which is triggered by fading light. This behavior can include yelling, pacing, mood swings, or hearing and seeing things that don’t exist. In order to mitigate the affects of sundown syndrome, it’s suggested that caregivers note the things that seem to trigger sundown syndrome and limit those triggers to the best of their ability.

When one has a sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by getting to the toilet and not having to urinate anymore. This type of incontinence may be caused by a minor condition, such as infection, or a more-severe condition such as neurologic disorder or diabletes.

Home remedies for cold sores include:

• Over the counter cold sore ointment (i.e. Abreva)
• Lip balms and lip creams
• Cold compress application
• Pain relieving creams
• Reducing stress
• Creams that combine rhubarb and sage

While both narcolepsy and insomnia are sleep disorders that cause daytime tiredness, narcolepsy occurs when someone cannot control when they fall asleep and insomnia occurs when someone has trouble falling (and staying) asleep. People with narcolepsy fall into the deepest sleep cycle almost immediately, called REM sleep, while people with insomnia struggle to fall asleep and will feel like they didn’t get enough sleep upon waking up.

Side effects of bulimia include dehydration, tooth decay, gum disease, digestive problems, anxiety, alcohol abuse, drug abuse, or suicide.

Birth control medication is a safe, simple, and convenient way to prevent pregnancy. It also has other benefits like reducing acne, making your periods regular, and easing menstrual cramps. It’s effectiveness, however, is predicated upon you taking the medication every day, or you might not be protected from pregnancy. Also, like most medications, birth control pills can have side effects. While most go away after two or three months, you will want to talk with your doctor about finding another brand of pill or another birth control method. It is imperative, however, that you do not stop taking the pill before you start a new method or you’ll be at risk of pregnancy.

Pustular psoriasis is characterized by white pustules surrounded by red skin. Pustules are blisters of noninfectious pus that consist of white blood cells. This condition is not contagious. It can occur on any part of the body, but occurs most often on the hands or feet.

There are hundreds of controlled substances that cannot be prescribed online, these include most muscle relaxants, erectile dysfunction medications, and insomnia medications. Below is a list of commonly requested medications that we are not able to prescribe online:

• Adderall
• Alprazolam
• Ambien
• Ativan
• Carfentanil
• Clonazepam
• Cocaine
• Codeine

There is no proven diet to help people with Crohn’s disease, but there are certain foods that may be triggers for the condition. Some foods to avoid include:

• Alcohol
• Butter
• Coffee
• Tea

Yes, common foods to avoid are:

• Chocolate
• Tomatoes
• Citrus foods
• Mint
• Garlic
• Onions
• Spicy foods

During an LGBTQ counseling session, you will speak privately and confidentially with a licensed therapist who is familiar with issues facing people of diverse genders and sexualities. You can talk about any concerns you have, whether they are specific to your gender identity/sexual orientation or not. LGBTQ counseling can help with exploring your gender identity or expression; exploring your sexual orientation; thinking about coming out; identifying and managing depression, anxiety, or gender dysphoria; and dealing with discrimination or bullying. Your LGBTQ counselor can also help with concerns such as relationship issues, sexual problems, parenting matters, and addiction.

There are certain conditions that cause pain more often on one side of the pelvis versus the other. For example, pain in the lower right pelvis may indicate that the condition is appendicitis.

LGBTQ counseling is for adults as well as for adolescents (ages 10-17 who have the consent of a parent or guardian). You may benefit from LGBTQ counseling if you identify as LGBTQ, are exploring your gender identity or sexual orientation, or want to be an ally of someone who is. During LGBTQ counseling with Amwell, you’ll have a secure, confidential face-to-face session with a licensed therapist who is experienced with issues facing people of diverse genders and sexualities. To ensure your privacy, your Amwell therapy session will not be recorded or stored.

Stress shows up differently for everybody and can last anywhere between a couple of minutes to multiple weeks or months. Common symptoms include sadness, frustration, helplessness, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms can appear in response to both short- and long-term stress, so it’s a good idea to seek support whenever you feel you need it. [1]

[1] Center of Disease Control and Prevention-Tips for Coping with Stress

There is no Zika vaccine available at this time.

Yes, yoga does help with back pain. In fact, recently, a study of 320 people, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, found that yoga and physical therapy provide the same level of improvement for people with back pain. The study involved participants who had chronic lower back pain. The study groups also reported similar quality of life and satisfaction measurements.

Regulations regarding the requirement of video as a prerequisite to prescribing versus the use of phone only differs state by state. If you are in a state where prescribing by video is necessary, our providers will ask you to end the call with no charge and call back over video where you can see the same provider. We recommend video consultations when treating children with respiratory conditions, abdominal pain, etc.

Treatment for acne scars depends on the type of scar. Some popular treatments include over-the-counter topical treatments, laser resurfacing, soft tissue fillers, dermabrasion, and chemical peels. Other treatments include surgery, needling, and botox.

There are two surgical treatment options for people with endometriosis. These options include laparoscopy and hysterectomy. Laparoscopy is a procedure to look for and destroy implants and scar tissue in the region. A hysterectomy, which is a procedure that removes a woman’s ovaries, is an option for women with no plans of getting pregnant and will help with the pain over the long term.

There are certain vitamins and minerals that are thought to have a direct impact on restless leg syndrome, specifically iron, folate, and magnesium. For this reason, it’s recommended that people who are experiencing restless leg syndrome symptoms add certain foods to their diet, including spinach or other dark and leafy greens, fortified cereals, and beans.

When one experiences multiple types of incontinence at the same time.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the immune system destroys the cells that release insulin, which is a hormone that helps the body use or store glucose. Type 2 diabetes develops when the body isn’t able to use insulin properly. Gestational diabetes is a condition that pregnant women develop when their body is not able to make and use insulin properly during pregnancy.

Some lifestyle changes may help prevent confusion including eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, getting rest, reducing stressors, trying to learn new things, limiting alcohol intake, and seeking treatment for depression.

Having your vital signs available provides your Amwell physician with a lot of information that is pertinent to your treatment and has bearing upon his or her decision of whether or not to prescribe birth control and what type of method or medication to prescribe. Having your current vital sign results will make the online session more effective and enable your physician to provide you with all the services he or she can at that time. Examples of vital signs you should provide to your Amwell physician for a visit regarding birth control include your most recent blood pressure and resting heart rate

Despite some theories about diet (nutritional imbalances, mineral deficiencies, etc.) and supplementation, there are not any proven natural remedies.

Women and men are just as likely to get the condition, but it affects a woman’s life in different ways, specifically when it comes to periods, pregnancy and menopause. For example, a woman may experience symptom flare-ups in the weeks leading up to her periods. They should also aim to plan pregnancy around times where they are in remission.

Through the Amwell website or mobile app, you can see a psychiatrist face-to-face from the privacy and comfort of your own home to address common behavioral health challenges. Psychiatrists are different than Amwell’s therapists in that they have the ability to prescribe medications for the treatment of diagnosed mental disorders.

When an Amwell physician determines you need a change in medication, but due to either state laws or some other reason he or she prefers not to write a full prescription, the physician may furnish you with a “bridge prescription.” A bridge prescription is an order for a limited supply of medication – usually enough for 15 to 30 days – that will cover your needs until you see your primary care physician and receive a physical examination to determine if the medication is right for you and if a longer supply is warranted.

The four predominant types of aphasia include:

• Expressive aphasia – You know what you want to say, but you experience difficulty articulating your thought through writing or speech.
• Anomic aphasia – You see words or hear someone speaking without being able to make sense of what it means.
• Receptive aphasia – You have difficulty identifying the right words you want to use while speaking.
• Global aphasia – You cannot read, write, speak and comprehend speech or writing.

Plaque psoriasis will often result in plaques of red skin, covered with itchy scales of skin. The disorder can also lead to abnormalities of the fingernails and toenails, including discoloration and pitting of the nails. The nails may begin to crumble or detach from the nail bed. 

You should call a doctor if any of the following occur:

• Vomiting that lasts for longer than 1 day
• Fever or severe diarrhea that lasts more than 2 days
• Sudden, severe abdominal pain
• Vomit or diarrhea turns bloody or tarry

People with narcolepsy should try to stick to the same routine every night, including going to bed at the same time, even on weekends. Other bedtime techniques to try include:

• Dimming lights and setting the air to a comfortable temperature
• Avoiding gadgets like smartphones
• Drinking non-caffeinated tea
• Sleeping on your side

The CDC advises women who are pregnant or trying to conceive to avoid travel to certain cities in the continental United States, Mexico, South America, West Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. For more information, please visit the CDC website to get a granular look into the level of risk in specific locations.

For ADD, Amwell psychiatrists can prescribe medications such as Strattera, clonidine and other options. We cannot prescribe controlled substances, unless a patient is currently in a DEA registered facility (i.e. CMHC, an In-Clinic Program site, etc.).

This condition occurs when one has a phycial or mental impairment that keeps you from getting to the toilet in time.

Health care costs and inconveniences are rising due largely to redundancy of services caused by poor communication between providers. To manage your conditions responsibly, laboratory and diagnostic testing and specialist referrals are occasionally needed either for accurate diagnosis or ongoing monitoring. As with controlled substances, these recommendations will be made and carried out through your primary care provider, again avoiding duplication of tests and providing the best coordination of your care.

This condition is caused when one doesn't empty the bladder completely. Usually, there will be a constant dribbling or leaking of urine.

A phobia is a heightened fear response to a very specific stimulus or event. Having a phobia essentially means being scared of something so much that it leads to physical discomfort and disruptions in your life. Common phobias include a fear of animals or insects, natural events such as thunderstorms, medical procedures, blood, injuries, injections with needles (trypanophobia), and holes (trypophobia).

“While it’s not an absolute contraindication, avoiding anything that could irritate or chafe the urethra is probably a good idea so avoiding sex for a few days typical makes sense.” - Dr. Cynthia Horner

A contraindication is a procedure that doctors advise against based on evidence that it may cause harm to the patient.

There are several different types of anxiety. They include:

• Social anxiety: People with an intense fear of social or performative situations may have social anxiety disorder. They think that their actions or behaviors will be “wrong” in the eyes of family, friends, colleagues, and/or peers. This may lead them to avoid social scenarios.
• Generalized anxiety (GAD): When you have GAD you show excessive anxiety or worry, most days for at least 6 months, about personal health, your job, social interactions, and/or everyday routine situations.
• Panic disorder: People with panic disorder have recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden periods of intense fear. These attacks come on fast and peak within minutes. Attacks can occur unexpectedly or can be brought on by a trigger, such as a feared object or situation.
• Specific phobia: A phobia is when fear or anxiety is circumscribed to the presence of a particular situation or object. Most people in this category have more than one specific phobia, and the fear can lead to persistent avoidant behaviors that may impact their quality of life. 

The five stages of grief were identified by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kubler-Ross in 1969 in her groundbreaking book On Death and Dying . Her theory explained the process of grief over five distinct, linear stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance. Kubler-Ross’s work was revolutionary. It acknowledged that grief is a normal emotional process, which helped reduce the stigma associated with grieving. However, Kubler-Ross’s research was done with patients who were dying of a terminal illness which gave the impression that grief was a linear process — where one step had to follow another. This became problematic as the grief experienced by the survivors of loss is unique. People move in and out of the stages of grief in varying ways and time frames. The idea that someone was not grieving “correctly” was confusing and painful.

To soothe your throat when it’s sore or dry, you can try ice pops, chicken soup, hot tea, etc. A turkey sandwich is a great source of lean protein which will give your body energy to fight illness. Bananas are easy on the stomach with and they can help with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Melancholia is a form of severe depression where many physicial symptoms of depression are present. Very common symptoms typically include:

• When a person starts to move more slowly
• They are more likely to have a depressed mood that can be characterised by a complete loss of pleasure

Cellulitis — a skin infection that causes pain, redness, and swelling — isn’t contagious; you can’t catch it from someone else. Cellulitis is caused when bacteria that normally live on your skin enter your body and infect deeper tissues. This can happen if you have an injury such as a cut or burn, or even a scrape or insect bite.  

You may also have a greater risk of getting cellulitis if you: 

• Have a chronic skin condition such as eczema or athlete’s foot 
• Have diabetes or vascular disease 
• Are overweight 
• Take immune-suppressing medications such as corticosteroids 
• Get a tattoo or piercing 
• Use injectable drugs 

No. The cost is the same no matter when you talk with a pediatrician.

Chlamydia isn’t directly fatal, but if left untreated, it can lead to a number of serious complications. In women, these complications include inflammation of sexual organs (i.e. cervix, urethra, lining of the uterus, uterus, fallopian tubes, and pelvis), infertility, and chronic pelvic pain. Complications in men include urethritis, inflammation of male sexual organs, and infertility.

Bronchitis is a swelling of the bronchi, the airways that lead to your lungs. The most common symptoms are coughing and mucus, but you may also have wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain, and a slight fever. Bronchitis is usually caused by cold or flu viruses, but occasionally a bacterial infection may be the culprit. Acute (short-term) bronchitis usually goes away on its own, without medicine.

With the Amwell web or mobile app, you can see a psychologist or counselor, face to face to address common behavioral health challenges, from the privacy and comfort of your own home. Amwell’s online therapy services are available nationwide and include a network of more than 350 psychologists, social workers and other mental health disciplines with a wide variety of specialties.

Not at this time. While you can choose to obtain these additional services from the virtual doctor visit provider, the services will not be covered under your virtual doctor visit benefit and you will be responsible for the full cost of these services. The costs for these services will not count towards your deductible or out-of-pocket maximum.

In general, it is important for you to have the following information available for your visit:

• Most recent lab results
• Results of any daily testing (e.g., blood pressure, blood glucose)
• Any medications you are taking – both prescription and over-the-counter

During your online LGBTQ counseling session on Amwell, you’ll meet face-to-face with a board-certified therapist experienced in helping people of diverse genders and sexualities. The therapist will work with you on whatever concerns you wish to address, helping you gain insights and skills to enjoy an emotionally healthier life and relationships. If it’s your first session, your LGBTQ counselor will ask questions to better understand how your difficulties are affecting your life and what your goals are for counseling. The therapist will then suggest a treatment plan that’s tailored to your needs and goals.

ADD stands for attention deficit disorder, while ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The “H” in ADHD is when hyperactivity is a symptom. Adults will typically not express hyperactivity and only have the attentional issues.

One of the best ways to manage stress is to use self-care techniques. These will be different for everyone, but some key things to think about are eating healthy meals, exercising regularly, getting plenty of sleep, and taking breaks from intense concentration. Talking to friends and family can also help, even if you just need to vent. If your stress starts to feel overwhelming, just know you’re not alone. Reach out to a therapist who can help you find a solution before it gets harder to handle. [1]

[1] Center of Disease Control and Prevention-Tips for Coping with Stress 

Bowel movements are typically brown because they contain bile salts -- substances made in your liver to help with digestion. If your stools are a different color, it could be caused by foods you’ve eaten -- either due to their natural color or the use of food colorings. But it could also be related to health concerns. For example: 

• Green: Can occur with diarrhea or result from taking iron supplements. Can also be a sign that food and waste are passing through your colon too quickly. 
• Clay or putty-color: May mean your liver isn’t producing enough bile, or the flow of bile out of your liver is blocked.  
• Black or tarry stools: This could be a sign of bleeding in the upper part of your digestive system; it’s important to contact a health care provider you experience this. 
• Red: Can be a sign of bleeding in the lower part of your digestive tract. 

Collaborative Care Psychiatry is when our psychiatrist cares for you in coordination and partnership with your primary care provider. Another term for this is Integrated Care.

The cost of a visit is $79, compared to the average national cost of $139 for an office visit or $645 for an emergency room visit, and may be even less as some employers and insurance companies cover telehealth visit. Contact your Human Resources department or health insurance company to see if your visit is covered. This cost does not include the cost of any prescriptions, follow-up lab work or follow-up visits if deemed applicable.

The cost of a visit is $79, compared to the average national cost of $176 for an office visit or $645 for an emergency room visit, and may be even less as some employers and insurance companies cover telehealth visit. Contact your Human Resources department or health insurance company to see if your visit is covered. This cost does not include the cost of any prescriptions, follow-up lab work or follow-up visits if deemed applicable.

Yes, by dialing 1-844-SEE-DOCS you can connect with agents who can assist you with whatever it is you’re looking for, including enrollment, connecting with a doctor, or answering any technical support questions.

The heat and steam from a hot shower does wonders for congestion and sinus pressure. Netti pots, salt water nasal sprays, Vapo rub and humidifiers can also help relieve the discomfort from your sinus infection symptoms. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a method of treatment that is used to effectively address a wide range of mental health concerns. CBT is a goal-oriented psychotherapy that aims to improve mental health functioning by challenging unhelpful thoughts and beliefs (cognitive distortions). It helps the client change unhelpful patterns of behavior and improve emotion regulation and coping skills. CBT also allows clients to recognize their cycles of thought, feeling, and behavior to notice maladaptive patterns and initiate change. CBT is different from traditional talk therapy in that it is problem-focused and action-oriented and less time is spent delving into the client’s past or the therapist’s interpretations.

DBT is a type of CBT. The main difference is that DBT focuses on mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, while CBT focuses on replacing negative thoughts and actions with productive behaviors.

• Alabama
• Arizona
• California
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Idaho
• Indiana

Overall fatality rates of COVID-19 are low, and most people have mild symptoms. Those with chronic lung disease and other chronic medical conditions and people older than 65 years with weaker immune systems are most at risk for complications if they contract COVID-19.[1] Even though most individuals will not die from it, COVID-19 is a public health concern because there is no immunity to it.[2]

The best way to find out if a visit is covered by your insurer is to enter your insurance information and subscriber ID when you log in. Then, you can follow the steps until you reach the insurance information page. The price you pay will either be your insurance copay or the low cash price of $79. You have the option of cancelling the visit, if for some reason your insurance does not cover it.

Bipolar II is a milder version of bipolar I disorder. When someone develops bipolar I disorder, that person experiences abnormal periods of mania, which manifests as high energy moods or irritability and depression. Bipolar II disorder is similar to bipolar I disorder, but their mood swings are less intense.

Stimulants (e.g., Ritalin, Dexedrine) are effective for treatment of ADHD/ADD, but they are controlled substances, which cannot be prescribed online. Other medications include Strattera, clonidine and other options, which are not controlled substances and can be prescribed online.

Second opinion costs $800 and payment is due at time of visit intake.  This covers:

• An on-demand or scheduled intake visit with a care manager who will help facilitate the collection of your medical records and imaging
• A review and assessment of your condition by a Cleveland Clinic specialist
• A one-on-one educational consultation with a Cleveland Clinic specialist to discuss your second opinion and answer questions

There may be an additional charge if your pathology needs to be reinterpreted. To ensure accurate reviews of the samples provided, in cases where pathology is present, Cleveland Clinic physicians prefer to have pathology reinterpreted by pathologists at Cleveland Clinic.  

Yes. Some people tend to get strep throat more than others and a common way to get strep again is if it is not cured after the first course of antibiotic treatment. If you have had strep throat 7 or more times in one year, your physician will most likely recommend performing a tonsillectomy.

No. The cost is the same no matter when you visit with the doctor.

A typical therapy visit on Amwell is 45 minutes. The average number of visits a patient has is six, but each patient has an individualized treatment plan and your therapist may recommend more or fewer visits.

Telehealth makes healthcare more accessible and efficient. It can be especially useful
for people who live far away from their provider or don’t have time to travel to the
doctor’s office. Telehealth is also a great health self-management tool and can be used
collaboratively with providers and other members of your healthcare team.

Because doing so provides you with the highest quality care and most improves your overall health. Other important reasons to receive psychiatric care this way are safety, wellness, and efficiency.

Pregnancy-related counseling visits cost $99 (master’s level provider) or $110 (doctoral level provider), compared with the average national cost of $161 for a therapy visit, and usually just a co-pay or meeting a deductible if your employer or insurance company offers a telehealth benefit. Contact your Human Resources department or health insurance company to see if your visit is covered.

This type of pink eye is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1. It differs from other viruses due to the fact that it can induce blurred vision. Other symptoms may occur such as eye pain, redness and increased tear production.

One in four Americans is affected by emotional distress at some time in life, but only one in eight seeks care. From chronic concerns such as depression and anxiety, to recent stress caused by events such as grief, divorce, parenthood, or other major life changes, online psychiatry allows for reliable and convenient visits with licensed and highly trained physicians. Besides an initial consultation and diagnosis, here are a few reasons people go online to see a psychiatrist:

• You need a psychiatric medication or more than one psychiatric medication
• You have one or more mental disorder diagnosis
• You feel that you aren’t getting better under the care of a general practitioner
• You are experiencing complex side effects to your current medications and would like a second opinion
• You want to change your psychiatric medication
• You have questions about your doctor’s treatment plan and want a second opinion

Telehealth provides a patient portal to communicate with your healthcare provider,
request prescription refills, review test results and previous visit summaries, and
schedule appointments or request appointment reminders.  With some apps and
platforms, you can also have on-demand visits.

No. The cost is the same no matter when you talk with a psychiatrist.

Yes, we feel it is of utmost importance to maintain patient privacy and keep information secure. Amwell is designed to be a private, secure, HIPAA-compliant tool that allows you to safely and confidentially consult with a dietitian online.

No. The cost is the same no matter when you visit with a registered dietitian/nutritionist.

Care managers are available daily, including most weekends, to see you at home and get your second opinion process started. You can meet with a care manager in minutes or schedule an intake visit for a time convenient for you. Your manager will help coordinate your records, imaging, and test results.

After your intake visit, our care managers will help begin collecting your records. Once all your relevant information has been received at Cleveland Clinic, you’ll be matched with a Cleveland Clinic physician expert in that specialty. Once your specialist reviews your results, you’ll receive a one-on-one consultation with your specialist who can discuss your second opinion, answer questions, and provide recommendations for care.

Virtual Doctor Visits provider groups are expected to deliver care within 30 minutes or less from the time of a patient's request. You are also able to schedule an appointment for another time with a virtual doctor visit doctor.

Psychologists and counselors are available for scheduled sessions. To schedule an appointment, you can call 877‑410‑5548. Therapists are available 7 am – 11 pm EST, 7 days per week to help you and your families cope with many life issues that may require professional attention. Once you and your therapist have established a relationship, your therapist will schedule ongoing sessions to continue treatment.

Many studies have shown that being able to access care online greatly increases your ability to manage your condition. The ease of access to specialists – particularly in remote areas – means patients have greater opportunities to discuss their conditions on a regular and more frequent basis. Also, the ability to speak with a physician or specialist more frequently helps you to stick with your care plan and to get a better understanding of your condition.

Only a healthcare professional can diagnose symptoms, but there are some that are particularly common to coronavirus infections. COVID-19 is a lower respiratory infection, which means it mainly affects the lungs. Most people develop a fever with a cough and shortness of breath. Many also feel exhausted, and have body aches[1]

[1] CDC Coronavirus Disease 2019 Symptoms; https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html

Here are a few reasons children go online to see a pediatrician:

• If you live far from your nearest physician's office.
• Ongoing management of a child's chronic condition.
• See a doctor quickly for minor conditions, such as a cold or flu.
• You and your child may need to speak with a specialist, including pediatricians that focus on pediatric gastroenterology, pediatric neurology, and pediatric urology.

Yes – many people with anxiety have physical (or “somatic”) symptoms such as dizziness, headache, stomach aches/bowel issues, fatigue, insomnia and even increased pain.

A typical doctor visit on Amwell is 10 minutes – the amount of time needed to handle most medical issues. Of course, you can add more time should you need to.

Yes, you can get a prescription online. There is support for this nationwide, however there are several exceptions. Learn more on our prescriptions page.

Psychologists and counselors are available for scheduled sessions. To schedule an appointment, log on and select the time that works best for you.

While CBT was originally developed to treat depression, it has long since been a widely effective treatment approach for most mental health concerns including anxiety, eating disorders, substance use, body dysmorphia, sleep disorders, and pain management.

DBT can be used to treat personality disorders, depression, bulimia, binge eating, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic-stress disorder, and substance abuse.

The flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses caused by viral infections. Colds are typically milder than the flu. A cold can make you feel ill for a few days, while flu symptoms can make you feel ill for weeks. The flu can also lead to more serious health problems like pneumonia. If you are coming down with a cold, your symptoms will typically begin with a sore throat and other symptoms like runny nose, congestion and cough will most likely follow a sore throat. Flu symptoms are very similar to those of a cold, but they are usually more severe and come on very quickly.

You can’t get chlamydia from kissing someone who has it — or from other casual contact, such as hugging, sharing towels or eating utensils, or using the same toilet. Chlamydia, a common sexually transmitted infection (STI), is spread through: 

• Vaginal, oral, or anal sex 
• Touching an infected person’s genitals 
• Childbirth (from an infected mother to her baby) 

Both men and women can get chlamydia and can pass it on to men or women. A man who has chlamydia does not need to ejaculate to infect his partner. A person with chlamydia can pass it on even if he or she has no symptoms. If you’ve had chlamydia in the past and been treated for it, you can get it again. 

Some of the most common forms of treatment for phobias include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy, both of which are well suited for delivery in an online therapy setting. With CBT, a therapist helps to make connections between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as you work to better understand your phobia or anxiety and change negative cycles. Exposure therapy is a process of working to take small steps of exposing yourself to the things that make you feel anxious. Doing this little by little can help you to slowly regain control over your fears and reactions. It is important to work with a mental health professional in these types of treatment, as they have the training to support and guide you towards progress without becoming overwhelmed.

Amwell is an affordable, convenient way to resolve routine medical conditions. Our unique, secure, technology makes it possible to see a doctor, face to face, without you having to leave your home on your smartphone, desktop or telephone. With video, providers can look, listen and engage with you to diagnose your health concerns and provide an effective treatment plan.

A typical nutrition visit on Amwell is 30 minutes, but you can schedule follow-up appointments with your dietitian/nutritionist of choice should you need more than one session to address your concerns.

As long as you aren’t experiencing chronic diarrhea, the condition should go away after a few days on its own. To treat the condition, you can take nonprescription antidiarrheal medicine, including psyllium, antispasmodic antidiarrheals (Imodium A-D), or probiotics.

Orbital cellulitis refers to an infection of the eye tissues behind the orbital septum, which is membranous tissue that separates the eyelid from the eye socket. Periorbital cellulitis is also an infection of the eye tissue, however, it only affects the front of the orbital septum. On the other hand, orbital cellulitis spreads to the eye socket.

Another big difference between periorbital and orbital cellulitis is timing. While adults can get periorbital cellulitis, it’s more common among children who are under two years. Orbital cellulitis is more commonly caused by sinusitis, while periorbital cellulitis is commonly caused by trauma or barteremia.

During relationship counseling (also called couples therapy) a licensed therapist can help you
and your partner with a range of relationship issues during a face-to-face meeting, from
problems communicating or resolving conflicts to infidelity, parenting concerns, sexual
difficulties, and more. Your therapist can help you better understand each other’s actions and
motivations, and learn skills for better communicating and resolving conflicts. Relationship
counseling is for adults of any gender who are in an intimate relationship. If your partner
doesn’t want to participate, you can have a relationship counseling session on your own. With
the Amwell web or mobile app, you can receive relationship counseling online in your home
with complete confidentiality.

All you need is a mobile device or computer and a strong wifi connection. You can use a
mobile device to log into your account and choose from various providers, depending on
the kind of care you’re looking for. You’ll be asked to upload your information before your
visit to help your provider learn more about you and how they can best provide support.
Many telehealth services use video during your visit, but some platforms may also
provide phone or chat options. You can access notes, tests, next steps, and other details
about your visit using your account.

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, aren’t contagious. They occur when bacteria from the skin or rectum enter the urethra, the tube that drains urine from your bladder when you urinate.  

UTIs are more common in women because of their anatomy. The opening of the urethra is close to the vagina and anus, which can harbor infection-causing bacteria, and their shorter urethras make it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.  

Strep throat has many symptoms. Some of the more common ones are: 

• Sore throat that comes on suddenly 
• Painful swallowing 
• Fever 
• Red, swollen tonsils, sometimes with whitish spots or patches 
• Tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth 
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck 

Amwell is partnering with new insurance plans every single day. Every health plan is different, so depending on your plan, you may have different levels of coverage. Many plans are offering telehealth visits as a covered benefit or at a reduced rate.

We work with a variety of health insurance companies including, but not limited to:

Unfortunately, women are at a higher risk of depression during pregnancy and in the year following childbirth. Depression during pregnancy is typically referred to antenatal depression and depression after childbirth is referred to as postnatal. Pernital depression typically describes the period covering pregnancy and the first year after childbirth. After a woman goes through pregnancy, there can be major hormonal changes, which is referred to as 'baby blues' - this affects up to 80% of women. The 'baby blues' are very common in women and are different than depression. Depression affects about 10% of women during pregnancy and 16% of women in the first three months after childbirth.

There is no “getting over” loss but there is a gradual process of acceptance that is complex and individual. Many find it helpful to think of grief stages in broader ways like shock, suffering, and recovery, which normalizes the human experience with room for a wide range of individual experiences..

A sinus infection (sinusitis) is swelling in the lining of your sinuses — hollow spaces in the bones of your skull. It’s usually caused by a cold or other virus but can also be caused by allergies or bacteria.  If your sinus infection is from a cold virus , you can spread it through droplets in the air from your sneezes, coughs, or breathing, or if another person touches a surface you’ve touched.  That person may get a cold or other respiratory symptoms but may not necessarily develop a sinus infection. If your sinus infection is due to bacteria or allergies, it’s usually not contagious. 

An initial telepsychiatry consultation is 45 minutes.  Follow-up visits are 15 minutes. If a psychiatrist deems additional behavioral talk therapy to be appropriate for your mental health, he/she can refer you to a psychologist of counselor within the Amwell network.

Yes, just make sure to select the state you’re in under My Location and you’ll only see doctors licensed to treat you in that state. When using the app, you can choose to update your current state based on mobile geolocation, making it faster to find a doctor, whether you are home or on the go. Doctor visits via telehealth are permitted in every state nationwide.

Acute bronchitis is very common, while chronic bronchitis is a more serious condition. Chronic bronchitis is a constant irritation or inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes and happens more frequently in smokers. Duration of the cough in a chronic case can last upwards of 3 weeks, in many cases. So support and home remedies are key.

A typical nutrition visit on Amwell is 30 minutes, but you can schedule follow-up appointments with your dietitian/nutritionist of choice should you need more than one session to address your concerns.

Studies repeatedly show that your overall health can be most improved by coordinating your mental and physical health care. Also, we realize that sometimes controlled substances are necessary to treat your condition, and we want you to receive the optimal treatment rather than offering you an alternative or second choice medication. As part of our collaborative approach, we may also recommend nutrition and/or talk therapy services to help you achieve optimal wellness.

A patient would see a psychiatrist for medication management and a psychologist for talk therapy. Sometimes the best form of treatment is a combination of both talk therapy and medication management. Psychiatrists and therapists are each able to evaluate a person to determine whether one or both treatments approaches are necessary, and can make recommendations based on their assessment.

Some studies have suggested that Pelargonium lessens the severity of bronchitis and cuts the duration by two days on average. This is a natural herb from the South African Geranium, "umcka" is the local name for the cough reducing plant. This product comes in lozenges and liquid and is available in many local pharmacies and on Amazon.

Another natural remedy which is great for kids is honey. Honey is a temporary fix that works as a cough suppressant and typically helps cover up that tickly feeling.

Doctors on Amwell take into consideration the specific symptoms and their duration when diagnosing pink eye. A detailed medical history will also help a doctor on Amwell determine the diagnosis and proper course of treatment.

Dialectical behavioral therapy, is a manualized, skills-based type of CBT that was originally developed in the 1980’s for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder by Marsh Linehan, Ph.D. DBT has since been used in a much broader way as an evidenced based treatment approach for many mental health conditions.

With the Amwell web or mobile app, you can select a registered dietitian/nutritionist of your choice to address common nutrition questions/concerns, from the privacy and comfort of your own home. Amwell’s nutritional services are available nationwide.

The 2^nd or 3^rd day of your sinus infection is usually the most uncomfortable. If you have a fever, take the day off and talk to a doctor about your symptoms.  If you are prescribed antibiotics, it is a good idea to take the 1^st day off to rest and allow the medication to start to work.

Our pediatricians are a broad network of independent doctors who have visits with patients like you from across the country.

To keep health information private each adult must create their own account. Children under 18 may be added to their parents account.

Everyone experiences feelings of sadness or despair in the lives, these are human emotions that are a part of life. When these feelings do not subside after a few days or persist outside of a distressing life event like a breakup or loss, you may be experiencing an episode of Depression. Major Depression is a common, yet serious clinical illness that requires help by a trained professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. In order to be diagnosed with Major Depression, several symptoms need to be present nearly every day for at least 2 weeks including:

The best way to protect yourself from getting COVID-19 is to avoid exposure.[1]

CBT therapists will assist clients in developing specific goals and identify strategies that will most effectively address these goals and decrease symptoms. CBT is often a manualized, short-term treatment and includes interventions such as relaxation exercises, motivational self-talk, journaling, mood monitoring, and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP). CBT relies heavily on the skills being practiced between sessions, with detailed review of progress and problem solving. This process allows the client to apply the strategies discussed in therapy to  real life.

Talking with a mental health professional about loss and grieving can be helpful in many ways. Some mental health professionals specialize in the grieving and bereavement process which can be useful when coping with a traumatic or complicated loss. Since grieving is a normal part of the human condition, most therapists are equipped and skilled to help their clients navigate their individual grieving process.

Yes – anxiety is a very normal reaction especially in stressful situations. Although, it is a disorder needing treatment when it occurs without provocation, is excessive or inappropriate to the situation. If it impairs the person’s functioning in any aspect of their lives it is also considered a disorder.

Visits cost $70, and may be even less as some insurance companies cover telehealth visits. Contact your Human Resources department or health insurance company to see if your visit is covered.

Strep throat is highly contagious. When you sneeze, cough or breathe, tiny droplets containing the strep bacteria go into the air and are easily inhaled by others. You can pass strep throat to others until you’ve been taking antibiotics for 1 to 3 days. If you have strep throat, stay home until your fever is gone and you’ve been taking antibiotics for at least 24 hours.  Avoid kissing people or sharing eating utensils when you have strep throat.

Yes! It is never too late to tackle a phobia and make real changes. The treatment of phobias, like any other type of mental health treatment, takes hard work and dedication. With a commitment to getting better, there’s no limit to what online therapy can do for you.

Yes, when you use one of the provider groups in our Virtual Doctor Visits network, you have benefit coverage for visits to treat certain non-emergency medical needs such as the flu, colds, pink eye, rashes and fevers. For a more complete list of the coverage available under your virtual doctor visit benefit, go to the "About Virtual Doctor Visits" tab. Check your plan documents for more information about your plan's specific virtual doctor visit benefit. 

Yes, you can get a prescription online. There is support for this nationwide, however there are several exceptions. Learn more on our prescriptions page.

With the Amwell web or mobile app, you can see a psychologist or counselor, face to face to address common behavioral health challenges, from the privacy and comfort of your own home. Amwell’s online therapy services are available nationwide and include a network of more than 350 psychologists, social workers and other mental health disciplines with a wide variety of specialties.

1. Open the MyConsult app or web platform, or download the app on the App Store or Google Play.
2. Choose the “MyConsult Second Opinions” practice found in the specialty services section.
3. Start an intake visit with the care manager of your choice in minutes or schedule a visit for a time that is convenient for you.
4. Provide details about your records, imaging, and test results so your Cleveland Clinic specialist can review your information.
5. Have a one-on-one educational consultation with your dedicated Cleveland Clinic specialist who can discuss your second opinion and provide recommendations for care.

The psychiatrist will perform the initial psychiatric evaluation and all follow up visits with you, make a diagnosis and revise it as necessary over time, and prescribe you the psychiatric medications needed to get you well. With your permission, after each visit he will send a copy of the visit note to your primary care provider so they know what medications have been prescribed for you. The only medications the psychiatrist will not prescribe to you directly are any controlled substances, but he can recommend in his note that your primary care provider prescribe those for you. Other things the psychiatrist may recommend to your primary care provider are to order any lab tests, diagnostic studies, or specialist referrals that the psychiatrist may feel are important in managing your condition.

Two home remedies for diarrhea are hydrating regularly, especially sticking to clear liquids, and eating a bland diet (avoiding spicy food, fruits, alcohol, and caffeine).

Most of the time, the flu is contagious for about 24 to 72 hours after you have come in contact with the virus. You might remain contagious for up to five days after the onset of symptoms.

Yes, we feel it is of utmost importance to maintain patient privacy and keep information secure. Amwell is designed to be a private, secure, HIPAA-compliant tool that allows you to safely and confidentially consult with a doctor online.

No. Because diagnoses of chronic conditions require specialized tests with specific equipment, they cannot diagnose your chronic condition. In order to see an Amwell physician for chronic care management, you will first need a diagnosis of that condition from a physician you have seen in person.

A typical doctor visit on Amwell is 10 minutes – the amount of time needed to handle most medical issues. Of course, you can add more time should you need to.

"There is no conclusive evidence that cranberry juice actually works – the support is mostly anecdotal. If you do choose to try it, I would recommend the cranberry gel capsules with water. You can avoid any of the extra sugars in the juices and it is more concentrated." -Dr. Cynthia Horner

"Cranberries do contain an ingredient that makes it harder for bacteria to stick to the bladder, but studies have not conclusively shown that there is enough of an effect to cure or prevent infections. However, some patients do feel that it helps and there is no evidence to suggest it is harmful.” - Dr. Michael Gray

A typical therapy visit on Amwell is 45 minutes. The average number of visits a patient has is six, but each patient has an individualized treatment plan and your therapist may recommended more or fewer visits.

Amwell is designed for on-demand care so no appointment is necessary. After you register and log in to Amwell, doctors who are available for a visit will appear on your screen. You can browse doctor profiles and select who you want to see by clicking on the green “Connect” button. If no one is available, you will be placed in a "waiting room" and notified by text message once a doctor is available.

Amwell psychiatrists are only available by appointment by calling 855‑818‑3627 or using the self-schedule feature within the Amwell. Our team of psychiatrists is available during convenient times, often during nights and weekends, to help you cope with many life issues that may require professional attention. Patients can typically get appointments in 14 days or less. Once you and your psychiatrist have established a relationship through the initial visit, your psychiatrist will schedule a follow up visit for you to continue treatment with them.

1. Log in and navigate to My Account. 
2. Under My Children, click Add. 
3. You can then choose to either create a new profile or link to an existing profile.

Urinary tract infections are one of the most common bacterial infections of childhood. However, since children may have more serious complications than adults, it is important to collect a urine sample on all children before they are treated with antibiotics. If your online doctor decides that your child may have a UTI, you will need to take your child to your primary care physician or local urgent care center for testing.  

Visits cost $99 (master’s level) or $110 (doctoral level), compared with the average national cost of $161, and usually just a co-pay or meeting a deductible if your employer or insurance company offers a telehealth benefit. Contact your Human Resources department or health insurance company to see if your visit is covered.

Visit prices vary depending on service type. Urgent care visits start at $79, while therapy visits price at $99 (master’s level) or $110 (doctoral level). You can compare prices by reading more on our service pages: https://amwell.com/cm/services/.

For more information, contact your Human Resources department or health insurance company to see if your visits are covered.

It is possible to get strep throat after you’ve had your tonsils removed, although there is some evidence that you may get it less often . Strep throat is when bacteria called group A Streptococcus (group A strep) infect your throat and tonsils. Once you’ve had your tonsils removed (tonsillectomy) the bacteria can no longer infect them but can still infect your throat. What you can’t get after you’ve had your tonsils removed is tonsillitis — what doctors call an infection of the tonsils regardless of the cause. Most cases of tonsillitis are caused by a virus, but when it’s caused by bacteria, the culprit is usually streptococcus, or strep.

Acute bronchitis usually improves within a few days without lasting effects, although you may continue to cough for weeks. If you experience repeated instances of bronchitis you could have chronic bronchitis, which requires medical attention and can last much longer.

Sinus infections can last several days. Viral sinus infections are usually most severe three to six days after they start, and then begin to improve by day 10. A viral sinus infection can develop into a bacterial infection, which typically lasts longer than 10 days. Patients will usually respond to antibiotics within two to three days after a bacterial sinus infection is diagnosed and treated. After that, sinus infections can resolve anywhere between seven and 14 days.

There are three types of sinusitis. All three are based on length of symptoms:   

• Acute Sinusitis - symptoms last for less than four weeks
• Subacute Sinusitis - symptoms last for four to 12 weeks
• Chronic Sinusitis - symptoms last for more than 12 weeks

The primary care provider’s role in collaborating with the psychiatrist is to receive and review the visit noted sent by your psychiatrist, and consider following the recommendations that have been made. These recommendations may include prescribing a controlled medication, ordering laboratory or diagnostic tests, and making a referral to a specialist for evaluation of other possible relevant conditions. The primary care doctor will see that copies of all such tests and evaluations are sent back to the psychiatrist for his record. Finally, if the primary care provider has any concerns over how the psychiatric medications may be affecting your physical health or other medical medications, he will communicate this to your psychiatrist for his consideration.

Over-the-counter artificial tears can relieve the inflammation and dryness of pink eye (conjunctivitis). Other steps you can take at home are applying warm compresses and avoiding wearing contact lenses until you no longer have symptoms. If your conjunctivitis is caused by allergies, over-the-counter allergy medicines and eye drops may also help. 

If your pink eye symptoms worsen or don’t get better, or if you have eye pain, intense redness in your eyes or light sensitivity, it’s a good idea to see a doctor who can diagnose the infection and suggest a more targeted treatment plan. Depending on the cause of your pink eye, this could include prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointment, or antiviral medication.

Through Amwell, on your computer or smartphone, a licensed pediatrician of your choice can address common pediatric questions and concerns, from the privacy and comfort of your own home. This includes generalist pediatricians as well as doctors that focus on pediatric gastroenterology, neurology, and urology. General pediatricians are available nationwide, while specialty pediatricians are available in select states.

The cost of a visit is $79, compared to the average national cost of $139 for an office visit or $645 for an emergency room visit, and may be even less as some employers and insurance companies cover telehealth visit. Contact your Human Resources department or health insurance company to see if your visit is covered. This cost does not include the cost of any prescriptions, follow-up lab work or follow-up visits if deemed applicable.

Amwell dietitians are available by appointment by using the self-scheduling feature within the application or by calling 1-844-SEE-DOCS.  Our team of dietitians have daytime, evening and weekend appointments for your convenience.

With the Amwell web or mobile app, you can select a registered dietitian/nutritionist of your choice to address common nutrition questions/concerns, from the privacy and comfort of your own home. Amwell’s nutritional services are available nationwide.

There are many natural home remedies that can help alleviate flu symptoms. These include:

• Hydrating
• Soup
• Relaxing – be a couch potato!
• Breathing moist air – a humidifier
• Cough drops, throat lozenges and hard candies
• Gargling with salt water

Amwell is an affordable, convenient way to resolve routine medical conditions. Our unique, secure, technology makes it possible to see a doctor, face to face, without you having to leave your home on your smartphone, desktop or telephone. With video, providers can look, listen and engage with you to diagnose your health concerns and provide an effective treatment plan.

Care managers are available daily, including most weekends, to see you at home and get your intake visit started. The process begins during your intake visit, and the manager will collect all of the relevant records and images for your case. Depending on the complexity of your case, and where you may have had previous testing, record collection varies in length and impacts the time to render the opinion. Our team’s focus is to take the burden off of you, and we will do our best to facilitate the collection of your records in a timely fashion.

CBT is well suited for online therapy because of its focus on active participation and interaction between the therapist and client. Clients’ access to therapy from their chosen location aligns with the CBT therapist’s solution-focused approach and desire to help their clients make practical and specific improvements. Most, if not all, CBT approaches can be adapted to an online format.

For information about what Virtual Doctor Visits provider groups are in the network, including the states in which each provider group operates, go to the "Choose a Provider" tab. 

Depression is when one is constantly in a low mood with loss of interests and enjoyment, accompanied by other changes such as low energy, disturbed sleep, changes in appetite and poor concentration. Anxiety does not always include this feeling of a low mood – typically, it is excessive or inappropriate worry.

Effectiveness of couple’s therapy is hard to determine because “successful” relationship outcomes are different for everyone and by nature, subjective. In general, there is strong evidence to support that therapy approaches that focus on engaging commitment in the therapy process, establishing clear goals and guiding effective between session work on those goals, is likely to be effective.

Currently, we can provide patients with help managing the following:

• Diabetes
• Headaches/Migraines
• Birth control methods
• Tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
• Hypertension
• Insomnia (cannot prescribe bridge prescriptions)
• COPD/Asthma
• Dermatology issues (Acne, Eczema, recurrent infections)
• Depression/Anxiety
• …and many more!

SAD is a mood disorder that has a seasonal pattern. It is unclear what the true cause of this disorder is. Although, studies have found that it is related to the variation in light exposure in different seasons. This disorder typically starts in winter and ends when spring rolls around.

The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance and emotion regulation. Traditionally, skill development in these four modules is approached in a systematic and gradual manner in both individual and group therapy. DBT, like other forms of CBT, focuses on the client's functioning in their day-to-day lives and incorporates skill coaching and reinforcement of skill practice between therapy sessions.

Yes, by dialing 1-844-SEE-DOCS you can connect with agents who can assist you with whatever it is you’re looking for, including enrollment, connecting with a doctor, or answering any technical support questions.

Menopause counseling visits cost $99 (master’s level provider) or $110 (doctoral level provider), compared with the average national cost of $161 for a therapy visit, and usually just a co-pay or meeting a deductible if your employer or insurance company offers a telehealth benefit. Contact your Human Resources department or health insurance company to see if your visit is covered.

While there are many phobias that can be effectively treated in online therapy, some of the most common include a fear of public speaking, heights, crowds, germs or dirt, illness, closed spaces, and social situations. Some people find online therapy particularly helpful for phobias of social interactions (or even leaving their homes) as it allows them to access treatment from a location where they feel most comfortable. For some, anxiety symptoms can be a major obstacle when trying to get to a traditional office setting for regular therapy appointments. These people often experience inconsistent or disrupted care. In cases like this, getting treatment via online therapy can make a huge difference in your ability to get the care you really need.

People who have symptoms of COVID-19 and who have been in close contact with someone with COVID-19, or who live in a community where there is active spread of COVID-19 should contact a healthcare professional to discuss whether testing is necessary.[1]

[1] CDC Testing for COVID-19 https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/testing.html

Men can get UTI’s, but due to human anatomy, it is much less common. Because it is less common and may be a sign of a more serious problem, we do not treat men online as urine culture is required prior to treatment.

Yes, we feel it is of utmost importance to maintain patient privacy and keep information secure. Amwell is designed to be a private, secure, HIPAA-compliant tool that allows you to safely and confidentially consult with a dietitian online.

Yes. Specifics vary by Virtual Doctor Visits provider group. All virtual doctor visits provider groups offer some Spanish-speaking physicians, although not in all states. Specific information is available at each Virtual Doctor Visits provider group's website.

When an Amwell physician determines you need a change in medication, but due to either state laws or some other reason he or she prefers not to write a full prescription, the physician may furnish you with a “bridge prescription.” A bridge prescription is an order for a limited supply of medication – usually enough for 15 to 30 days – that will cover your needs until you see your primary care physician and receive a physical examination to determine if the medication is right for you and if a longer supply is warranted.

Flu viruses that are able to survive on surfaces outside of the body that will then get transferred to someone’s hands can live up to 24 hours. Although, infectious flu viruses can survive on tissues including your hands for only 15 minutes.

Illness or injury can strike at any time. Amwell helps you get back on your feet, no matter where you are or the time of day. You can see a doctor online for a range of issues, from minor illnesses and injuries, symptoms from a chronic condition, or to address general health concerns. Here are a few reasons people go online to see a doctor:

Here are a few reasons people go online to see a dietitian/nutritionist:

• I need nutrition advice to incorporate with my training plan.
• I want to look good and eat well in a way that fits with my busy lifestyle.
• I want to lose weight and need some nutrition tips to help me reach my goal.

No. The cost is the same no matter when you talk with a therapist.

Once your primary care provider has received the visit note from your psychiatrist recommending these medications be prescribed for you, you can call your primary care provider’s office and see if they will call those medications into your pharmacy for you to pick up. Your primary care provider may want you to schedule and come in for a visit with them first before they will prescribe these medications in some cases. In other cases, you may find that your primary care provider does not want to work collaboratively and does not agree to help you in this way. Should this be the case, one option is to consider finding a primary care provider who believes in collaborative care, wants to see that you get the help you need, and is willing to be part of this safe and thoughtful process.

– Does the provider group operate in the state you are when you need care?
– Does the provider group prescribe in the state you are when you need care?
– On average, how much experience do the physicians in the provider group have?
– Do you like the provider group's website and/or mobile app experience?

Knowing the patient’s medical history and severity of symptoms are the most useful pieces of information when diagnosing a sinus infection online.  Even in the office setting, one cannot see inside the sinuses, or obtain fluids from the sinuses to analyze further. Doctors on Amwell rely on the patient’s description of their symptoms and active participation in the visit to define our diagnosis and determine the best course of action.

The telepsychiatry services on Amwell are provided by a network of licensed physicians board-certified in psychiatry and neurology. They can provide a thorough assessment and follow up visits for medication management. Each psychiatrist is licensed to practice in their state, and is trained in delivering care via telehealth. In addition to psychiatrists, we have online licensed psychologists, therapists and counselors who can provide counseling services.

“Staying well hydrated is probably the best way to prevent UTI’s. Front to back personal cleansing for women and urinating after intimate activity can also reduce infections.” - Dr. Michael Gray

”For women, urinate after sex every time, even if it is only a few drops and always drink a glass of water. In general, hydrating well will help with prevention the most. If you work a job where you are on your feet and don’t get much time for breaks, you have to find time to hydrate and to urinate. Don’t fight your urge to pee – it’s a set up to get a UTI.” - Dr. Antoinette Eng.

Anxiety can be caused by a number of factors. One reason is disturbance in brain function related to the serotonin levels. This will ultimately cause symptoms of excessive worry or nervousness. Serotonin carries signals along and between nerves and is regarded by some researchers as a chemical that is responsible for maintaining mood balance.

Some doctors on Amwell offer on-demand care with no appointment necessary. However, other pediatricians are available by appointment only. After you register and log in to Amwell, pediatricians who are available for a visit will appear on your screen. You can browse doctor profiles and select who you want to see by clicking on the green “Connect” button. If no one is available, you will be placed in a "waiting room" and notified by text message once a doctor is available.

DBT is well suited for clients who have struggled with emotion regulation. This therapy is based in a biopsychosocial framework and theory that some people have a predisposition toward emotional hyperarousal and take longer to regain emotional balance than others. This tendency in combination with a social environment that reinforces maladaptive responses to emotion, can lead to the development of patterns of reactivity that are extreme and out of proportion. Such reactions and behaviors may cause problems in relationships, learning, and employment. DBT emphasizes the partnership of the therapist and client. This kind of collaboration can foster the positive alliance necessary to engage in the difficult and challenging work of changing maladaptive patterns to create a “life worth living” as defined by the client.

Here are a few reasons people go online to see a dietitian/nutritionist:

• I need nutrition advice to incorporate with my training plan.
• I want to look good and eat well in a way that fits with my busy lifestyle.
• I want to lose weight and need some nutrition tips to help me reach my goal.

Animals can get strep throat. On the flip side, it is rare for an animal to pass the streptococcal bacteria to humans.

An important function of the couple’s therapist is to observe the dynamics and patterns in the relationship in order to assist with skill-building and change. The couple’s therapist is not there to “save” the relationship or even have an opinion about whether or not the relationship should continue. The therapist will observe the couple’s interactions and listen to each individuals’ experiences in order to assess the areas of concern and where changes need to be made. It is the objective nature of the couple’s therapist that is the ally of the relationship and will guide interventions for aligning the couple in their shared goals and values.

No. The cost is the same no matter when you visit with the doctor.

There are different types of pink eye: viral, bacterial, and allergic. How long your pink eye lasts will depend on what type it is. Viral pink eye typically goes away within a week or two on its own. (There’s no treatment that will cure viral pink eye.) Bacterial pink eye can last a month or longer, even with antibiotic eye drops. Allergic pink eye is likely to remain a problem as long as you’re in contact with whatever it is that you’re allergic to. Both viral and bacterial pink eye are contagious, although you usually can’t spread the bacterial kind after 24 hours on antibiotic treatment. Allergic pink eye is not contagious.

Online couples’ therapy will increase the effectiveness in several specific ways; it increases access to well-trained providers, reduces scheduling limitations and allows for flexible meeting times, lessens child-care needs, reduces travel time and time off from work and people can join from different locations. It is clear that when couples reach out for help before problems go on for too long, their chances of relationship success greatly improve; online couples therapy is a simple yet very effective modality for couples therapy.

Amwell dietitians are available by appointment by using the self-scheduling feature within the application or by calling 1-844-SEE-DOCS.  Our team of dietitians have daytime, evening and weekend appointments for your convenience.

The service is not covered by insurance.

At this point in time we are only seeing patients age 18 and up. Check back in the future, as we plan on offering treatment for children and adolescents.

Doctors on Amwell will discuss your health history and assess whether a refill is safe at this time or whether it would be necessary to see your primary care physician in person. The decision to provide a refill and the quantity is at the sole discretion of the doctor. Be sure to share any information you have about your health history and condition that may help facilitate your refill, such as recent lab tests or blood pressure readings.

Amwell is designed for on-demand care so no appointment is necessary. After you register and log in to Amwell, doctors who are available for a visit will appear on your screen. You can browse doctor profiles and select who you want to see by clicking on the green “Connect” button. If no one is available, you will be placed in a "waiting room" and notified by text message once a doctor is available.

It depends on which type of bronchitis you have. Chronic bronchitis — which is typically caused by constant lung irritation from things like cigarette smoke, air pollution, and dust — isn't contagious. Acute bronchitis, which is usually caused by a virus, is contagious for up to a week (although symptoms may last up to three weeks). Less often, acute bronchitis is caused by a bacterial infection. If your doctor gives you antibiotics for bacterial bronchitis, you typically will stop being contagious 24 hours after you start taking the medication. To avoid catching acute bronchitis, keep your distance from anyone who has the flu or another respiratory illness. Ask the person to cover their nose and mouth when they sneeze or cough. Wash your hands frequently, and avoid touching your mouth, nose, and eyes.

One in four Americans is affected by emotional distress at some time in life, but only one in eight seeks care. From chronic concerns such as depression and anxiety, to recent stress caused by events such as grief, divorce, childbirth/parenthood, menopause, or other major life changes, online therapy allows for reliable and convenient therapy visits with licensed and highly trained therapists.

Here are a few reasons people go online to see a therapist:

• I feel like I should probably see a therapist, but can’t really fit it into my over-booked schedule.
• I am experiencing stress at work and need someone to talk to.
• I am having relationship problems and don’t know where to go from here.

If it is not an emergency condition, yes. Doctors on Amwell are able to provide medical advice, counsel you about your condition, and help you work through your treatment options.

Major depression is the most common form of depression. It is sometimes called major depression, clinical depression, unipolar depression or simply 'depression.' Major depressive disorder is typically when one has a low mood and/or loss of interest and pleasure in usual activities. Other symptoms can be a factor in depression and most of these symptoms will last for at least two weeks. Depression can be described as mild, moderate or severe. Severe cases of depression are either melancholia or psychotic.

Certain medication that are potentially addictive are considered “controlled”, and can only be prescribed by a provider who has met you in person first, as per the federal regulation, The Ryan Haight Act of 2008. Examples of controlled medications are:

• Benzodiazepines - used for anxiety, panic, sleep disorders, tremors, and seizures - include medications such as Xanax, Ativan, Restoril, Valium, Klonopin, and Librium
• Hypnotics - used for insomnia - include medications such as Ambien, Ambien CR, Lunesta, and Sonata
• Stimulants - used for ADD/ADHD, fatigue, depression, cognitive issues, and narcolepsy - include medications such as Dextroamphetamine, Adderall, Vyvanse, Dexedrine, Methylphendiate, Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Provigil, and Nuvigil
• Opioids, used for pain, and will not generally be recommended by psychiatrists

Like all medical products, yes – vaccines can cause side effects. Typically, side effects of the flu shot are mild, but they can include soreness, headache, fever, nausea and muscle aches.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, there is a shortage of pediatric medical subspecialists, such as pediatric gastroenterology, pediatric neurology, and pediatric urology. Telemedicine addresses this by offering these services remotely across state lines by giving patients in rural and undeserved areas easier access to care.

No. The cost is the same no matter when you talk with a therapist.

You have the option to share the session notes with your primary care provider. You will be asked if you want a copy of your after-visit summary to be shared with your primary care provider. If you choose to share your after-visit summary, Amwell will fax or electronically transmit your after-visit summary. You can also print the notes and save them for your own file or share with other healthcare professionals. You may also decide not to share this information. The choice is yours.

Yes, we feel it is of utmost importance to maintain patient privacy and keep information secure. Amwell is designed to be a private, secure, HIPAA-compliant tool that allows you to safely and confidentially consult with a doctor online.

UnitedHealthcare requires all network providers, including virtual doctor visit providers, to comply with all applicable laws, including laws relating to the security and confidentiality of patient information. Virtual Doctor Visits providers are covered entities under HIPAA and its regulations. Therefore, these providers have direct legal requirements to protect and secure confidential patient information. Virtual visit providers determine the manner and means by which they meet these privacy and security requirements. More information regarding security and privacy is available on the virtual doctor visit providers' websites.

Bronchitis, a swelling of the airways in the lungs that causes coughing and mucus, can be either acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).

Acute bronchitis is most often caused by a viral infection, such as a cold or flu. Bacteria can also sometimes cause acute bronchitis.

Yes, we feel it is of utmost importance to maintain patient privacy and keep information secure. Amwell is designed to be a private, secure, HIPAA-compliant tool that allows you to safely and confidentially consult with a psychiatrist online.

Call your primary care provider’s office and obtain their office fax number. You will need to enter your doctor’s fax number on our platform to enable us to coordinate your care. When you call your primary care provider’s office, inform the office that you will be getting your psychiatric care online and that they will be getting a note from your psychiatric visit outlining your diagnosis and treatment plan which may contain specific requests for your primary care provider. Advocate for yourself by explaining that you would like for them to work together with your psychiatric provider, who will be available to discuss your care with them anytime.

Besides regularly sharing notes and test results back and forth, there will be a secure voicemail line for your psychiatrist that your primary care provider will have access to allowing them to either speak on the phone or leave each other messages. It is very important that you do not use this voicemail to communicate with your psychiatrist, as it is for primary care providers only and using it may prevent other doctors from being able to communicate with our psychiatrists. Please be aware that your psychiatrist will not respond to messages left on this line by patients.

Registered dietitians are nutritionists but not all nutritionists are registered dietitians. Virtually anyone can call himself/herself a “nutritionist” regardless of education or training. All of our nutritionists are registered dietitians (RDs). RDs receive extensive training that combines academic preparation with hands-on, practical patient experience. RDs must complete a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, participate in a practice program involving direct patient care, and pass a national registration exam.

Amwell is designed for on-demand care so no appointment is necessary. After you register and log in to Amwell, doctors who are available for a visit will appear on your screen. You can browse doctor profiles and select who you want to see by clicking on the green “Connect” button. If no one is available, you will be placed in a "waiting room" and notified by text message once a doctor is available.

While we hope to soon be available internationally, we currently only operate in the United States.

It’s not only safe for you, but it could also save you and/or your baby’s life. The Centers for Disease Control, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American College of Nurse-Midwives, the American Academy of Pediatrics and many other organizations all strongly recommend that pregnant women get a flu shot.

Yes – many medications are available and effective in decreasing anxiety. Examples include many types of antidepressants, as well as benzodiazepines and others.

Yes, you do need to create an account before you can speak to a doctor on Amwell. The account creation process is simple and takes just a few moments. We recommend you set up your account now so it’s ready when you need it. Once your account is created, you can use the mobile app or website using the same username and password.

In traditional DBT treatment, clients have weekly sessions with an individual therapist and weekly DBT group therapy where there is a focus on working through the specific skills in each module. In more recent years, as DBT’s effectiveness has become more clear,ithas been adapted and integrated into other forms of psychotherapy.

Registered dietitians are nutritionists but not all nutritionists are registered dietitians. Virtually anyone can call himself/herself a “nutritionist” regardless of education or training. All of our nutritionists are registered dietitians (RDs). RDs receive extensive training that combines academic preparation with hands-on, practical patient experience. RDs must complete a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, participate in a practice program involving direct patient care, and pass a national registration exam.

The telehealth therapy services provided by Amwell are provided by a network of licensed doctoral level psychologists and master’s level therapists practicing within the Amwell Medical Group. Each therapist is licensed to practice in their state, and trained in prevention and treatment techniques via telehealth. In addition to therapists, we have online physicians who can prescribe medications and manage urgent care and regular office visit medical needs staffed by a national network of U.S. board-certified clinicians devoted to video telehealth.

The most common way to get the contagious form of pink eye is through direct contact with an infected person’s discharge, usually through hand-to-eye-contact. Pink eye can also develop from allergies and exposure to certain chemicals.

Doctors on Amwell follow the standard of care and recommendations provided by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) with regard to treatment and antibiotic prescription. There are specific symptoms we look for as well as symptom duration to consider when deciding whether or not to prescribe a patient antibiotics. By nature, sinus infections take a long time to heal; antibiotics are not always the recommended form of treatment.

While we hope to soon be available internationally, we currently only operate in the United States.

Dysthymia is very similar to major depressive disorder, but it is less severe. However, dysthymia symptoms typically last longer. To be diagnosed with dysthymia, a person will have this milder form of depression for more than two years.

We encourage you to provide your PCP information to the virtual doctor visit provider so that virtual doctor visit records can be sent directly to your PCP. You may also be able to access your virtual doctor visit record with the virtual doctor visit provider group so you can provide the records directly to your PCP or other health care providers as desired.

No, to ensure privacy and security of data, Amwell therapy sessions are neither recorded nor stored.

To soothe the pain of strep throat, stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water or other cool beverages. If you find warm drinks more comforting, try tea or broth. Throat lozenges, hard candies, or frozen fruit pops can also help ease your strep throat. When eating, stick to soft foods. Gargling with saltwater can also help; it reduces swelling and irritation . Mix ¼ teaspoon of salt with 4 ounces of warm water  and gargle with it, but don’t swallow. If your strep throat is still sore, consider an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). Never give aspirin to children under age 18.

All doctors on Amwell can provide a prescription in accordance with state laws and when medically appropriate. Some states require a video visit. To find out if you can be prescribed medication via telephone call 1-844-SEE-DOCS. Please note that doctors on Amwell are not allowed to prescribe:

An online psychiatry session is essentially the same as an office visit but more convenient since are seen from location of your choosing, eliminating the need for travel. You will be asked about your current emotional symptoms, potential factors contributing to these symptoms, your history and what you would like to be accomplished in your visit. Using all this information your psychiatrist will come up with a thorough assessment and treatment plan. This will be an ongoing conversation and, as they get to know you better over time, the plan can change as your needs change.

Yes, just make sure to select the state you’re in under My Location and you’ll only see therapists licensed to see you in that state. When using the app, you can choose to update your current state based on mobile geolocation, making it faster to find a doctor, whether you are home or on the go.

Pink eye can be contagious for up to two weeks, or until symptoms subside. Symptoms of pink eye include eye drainage, and red, swollen crusty eyelids. While many cases of pink eye infects only one eye, this infection can spread to the other eye. It is important to practice good hand washing and avoid touching your face when around anyone who has pink eye.

One in four Americans is affected by emotional distress at some time in life, but only one in eight seeks care. From chronic concerns such as depression and anxiety, to recent stress caused by events such as grief, divorce, childbirth/parenthood, menopause, or other major life changes, online therapy allows for reliable and convenient therapy visits with licensed and highly trained therapists.

Here are a few reasons people go online to see a therapist:

• I feel like I should probably see a therapist, but can’t really fit it into my over-booked schedule.

• I am experiencing stress at work and need someone to talk to.

• I am having relationship problems and don’t know where to go from here.

They have been hand-selected and certified in telehealth to deliver the best nutritional advice to you and your families. The online nutrition counseling services provided by Amwell are provided by a network within the Amwell Medical Group, a primary care practice with a national network of U.S. board-certified clinicians devoted to video telehealth.

In most cases, a sinus infection (sinusitis) goes away on its own and doesn’t need antibiotics. If your sinus infection lasts longer than 10-14 days, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

Meanwhile, there are things you can do to relieve your symptoms.

•       Drink plenty of fluids to thin mucus and help it drain from your sinuses
•       Breathe moist air — in the shower or from a humidifier in your room
•       Apply a warm, damp cloth to your face periodically throughout the day
•       Use a saline nasal spray

 You can also try over-the-counter nasal sprays for stuffy noses, but don’t use these for more than three to five days. Using them too often can actually make your symptoms worse.

Bronchitis, a swelling of the large airways of the lungs (called bronchi) occurs more often in older children and adults.

What’s more common in babies and younger children is a similar-sounding condition called bronchiolitis. That’s when smaller airways, called bronchioles, become swollen and narrowed, making it difficult for the baby to breathe. Bronchiolitis is most often caused by a viral infection such as a cold or flu. Infants and children under age 2 are most commonly affected because they may not be able to fight off lung infections as well as adults can.

You can still receive psychiatric care with us even if you don’t have a family doctor. However, without this collaboration, we won’t be able to prescribe you any controlled medications should you need them.

If you do have a primary care provider but find that they do not support a collaborative approach, your best option may be to find one that does. You deserve a provider that cares about your overall health and wellness, wants to see that you get the help you need, and is interested in being an active part of a safe and thoughtful process that has proven to achieve the best outcomes.

If you do not receive treatment for strep throat with antibiotics, you will remain contagious for two to three weeks. You will be much less contagious if you begin treatment with antibiotics – even after 24 hours.

Depression is not a “state of mind” or attitude problem that can be changed by simply “thinking more positively”. These are unfortunate misconceptions that perpetuate stigma which can lead to hiding the severity of symptoms and not seeking help. Depression is a medical condition that includes biological, chemical and medical factors.

Many people who suffer from Depression are considered “high functioning” and will continue to achieve and perform at high levels and may go to great lengths to hide their symptoms. Often, the symptoms of Major Depression will make day to day functioning nearly impossible and these changes are noticeable to others. Many people though can experience these same symptoms with slightly less severity and maintain day to day functioning, so their depression is not as noticeable. It is important to realize that even when able to maintain functioning, people are suffering, and symptoms should not be minimized. A therapist can help to sort out the symptoms and factors of depression in order to establish an accurate diagnosis and develop a plan for treatment.

Yes, we feel it is of utmost importance to maintain patient privacy and keep information secure. Amwell is designed to be a private, secure, HIPAA-compliant tool that allows you to safely and confidentially consult with a doctor online.

They have been hand-selected and certified in telehealth to deliver the best nutritional advice to you and your families. The online nutrition counseling services provided by Amwell are provided by a network within the Amwell Medical Group, a primary care practice with a national network of U.S. board-certified clinicians devoted to video telehealth.

They are basically different names for the same thing. An anxiety attack is more of a lay term for the more technical panic attack.

Yes, just make sure to select the state you’re in under My Location and you’ll only see psychiatrists licensed to see you in that state. When using the app, you can choose to update your current state based on mobile geolocation, making it faster to find a physician, whether you are home or on the go.

Amwell is not for people suffering from serious or life threatening conditions, such as:

• Seizures

• Chest pain

• Neurological symptoms, suggesting a stroke

• Difficulty breathing

• Dizziness or loss of consciousness

Neonatal conjunctivitis is the type of pink eye that affects newborn children. Newborns typically have a weaker immune system, giving them a higher risk for pink eye. This type of pink eye occurs when the baby passes through the birth canal. If the mother possesses certain types of bacteria, it can cause inflammation and this type of pink eye to occur. To prevent this condition from developing, hospital staff will immediately put newborn-friendly ointment around the baby’s eyes to prevent any bacteria from spreading. However, if some of the bacteria manage to survive, an infection may occur a few days after leaving the hospital.

In most cases, a sinus infection (sinusitis) doesn’t need antibiotics; it will go away on its own. Viruses are usually the cause of sinusitis. However, if yours is due to a bacterial infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotic treatment to shorten your recovery time and relieve your symptoms. Amoxicillin, with or without clavulanate, is a first-line antibiotic prescribed for sinus infections, but your doctor will prescribe the antibiotic that’s best for your condition.

 Only take antibiotics if your doctor prescribes them. Don’t try to self-treat your sinus infection by taking leftover antibiotics you may have on hand. Taking antibiotics when you don’t need them won’t help your condition and could cause serious health problems.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is excessive worrying, whereas social anxiety only occurs in or is triggered by having to perform in social situations (i.e. eating, talking, etc. in front of others).

An online therapy session is essentially the same as an office visit but it is from the convenience of the location of your choosing. You will be asked about your current emotional symptoms, potential factors contributing to these symptoms, your history and what you would like to be accomplished in therapy. Using all of this information your therapist will come up with a thorough assessment and treatment plan recommendations. This will be an ongoing conversation and can change if your needs change over time.

Strep throat typically goes away within three to seven days with or without antibiotic treatment. If strep throat is not treated with antibiotics, you may be contagious for two to three weeks and at a higher risk for complications such as rheumatic fever.

Acute (short-term) bronchitis usually goes away on its own. Doctors typically don’t prescribe antibiotics for bronchitis unless it’s caused by a bacterial infection, which is more common in children.

Treatments that may help your child get relief from symptoms include:

No, to ensure privacy and security of data, Amwell therapy sessions are neither recorded nor stored.

While we hope to soon be available internationally, we currently only operate in the United States.

There is no additional cost to get all of the many benefits of our collaborative care psychiatry.

Depression is a symptom of unresolved grief. Sadness can be a symptom of depression but oftentimes it is a relatively short period of feeling down, as opposed to depression, which lasts at least two weeks.

The telehealth therapy services provided by Amwell are provided by a network of licensed doctoral level psychologists and master’s level therapists practicing within the Amwell Medical Group. Each therapist is licensed to practice in their state, and trained in prevention and treatment techniques via telehealth. In addition to therapists, we have online physicians who can prescribe medications and manage urgent care and regular office visit medical needs staffed by a national network of U.S. board-certified clinicians devoted to video telehealth.

None of our therapists prescribe medication. In practice, the therapists are there to listen, understand your situation, identify more effective coping strategies and help you through difficult stages of life. However, physicians and psychiatrists on our system can prescribe most psychiatric medications for patients seen on our system. Our therapists work in collaboration with our physicians to provide this multi-disciplinary care resulting in efficient and effective care.

It is very common for daycares to require antibiotic eye drops for your child, especially if infected with bacterial pink eye, which is highly contagious. Even if prescription eye drops, we recommended your children not be around other children, at least until the redness and discharge subsides. It’s always a good idea to talk with a doctor, at any stage of the infection.

 If strep throat is left untreated it can cause serious complications, including:

The term "neurotic" is actually no longer a term used in any official clinical diagnosis system or classification. While "neurosis" was once included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders as a diagnosis, this was removed in 1980 and is not commonly used by mental health professionals today. We now understand these symptoms to more appropriately fit with anxiety and depressive disorders. As with any outdated term, the meaning and use of the term neurotic and neurosis can vary considerably from person to person. In other words, without a standardized and official definition of diagnosis or symptom, there is a great deal of room for various interpretations and understandings of any mental health concept. Generally speaking, neurosis reflects a period of experiencing anxiety or obsessive thoughts, which can contribute to emotional instability and generally cause distress. At times, these symptoms may be severe enough to interfere with some areas of functioning, but not to a severe or significant degree. The good news is that these symptoms and experiences are well understood and treated within the framework of anxiety and/or depression, which most mental health clinicians are very experienced at working with!

Controlled substances cannot be prescribed via telehealth on Amwell.  If you require a controlled substance (i.e., benzodiazepines), the Amwell psychiatrist may be able to coordinate with your primary care physician to have him or her prescribe those medications based on the psychiatrist’s recommendations. Otherwise, all other psychiatric medications can be prescribed by your online psychiatrist.

The doctors on Amwell are part of the Amwell Medical Group, which is a primary care practice with a national network of board-certified doctors who, on average, have 15 years of experience. Doctors are both single- and multi-state licensed and credentialed to work in your state of residence; 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Each of our doctors goes through a rigorous selection process to become a part of the network.

A cold is caused by a virus. Symptoms typically include sneezing, a stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, cough, and post-nasal drip (mucus going down the back of your throat). A cold usually lasts five to 10 days.

A sinus infection is swelling in your sinuses — air-filled spaces behind your forehead, nasal bones, cheeks and eyes — that prevents mucus from draining. A primary symptom is painful pressure in your cheeks and forehead. Sinus infection can also cause the same stuffy nose, cough, and post-nasal drip as a cold, as well as thick, yellow-green nasal discharge; headache; ear fullness; and even toothache.

A sinus infection can result from you having a cold; if your cold symptoms have lasted more than 10 to 14 days, you could have developed a sinus infection. Severe or persistent allergy symptoms can also lead to a sinus infection.

A sore throat that starts very quickly is one of the most common symptoms of strep throat. But there are also visible signs, including:

• Fever and no cough or cold symptoms
• Red, swollen tonsils (the lumps on either side of the back of your throat)
• White patches or streaks on your tonsils
• Tiny red spots, called petechiae, on the roof of your mouth

 Strep throat is more common in children under the age of 19. If your child has it they may also get a red rash, called scarlet fever or scarlatina. The rash may start out as flat blotches and later turn to fine bumps that feel like sandpaper.

 While these are all common signs of strep throat, a doctor cannot tell for sure if you or your child has it just by looking at your throat. A rapid strep test or throat culture are the only ways to determine whether group A Streptococcus (strep throat) is the cause of your illness.

Allergic conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva - the lining of the eye  - due to allergies. This type of pink eye can usually be confirmed by your doctor based on your symptoms and patient history. Although, to narrow down which allergens are causing the symptoms, a skin test may be helpful. Allergic conjunctivitis is non-contagious.

Online counseling has been demonstrated as an effective treatment modality for a wide range of conditions and diagnoses. The vast majority of symptoms that would be appropriate for treatment via outpatient therapy in a brick and mortar setting can also be effectively treated online. Because a mental health clinician's primary tools are their voice and language, therapy is an ideal fit for telehealth! Just as in a brick and mortar setting, the most important consideration is finding a therapist who has the clinical skill and experience to meet your needs, and with whom you feel comfortable. In other words, whether online or in-person, finding the right match is key. There are some situations in which office-based therapy would be a better fit than online counseling. Examples include someone who is unable or unwilling to reliably access the necessary technology, lack of sufficient internet, someone with urgent safety needs, someone whose symptoms prevent them from engaging effectively in communication via video, young children, or those who do best with the various wrap-around services that can be offered by a community clinic or group practice setting. In each of these examples, there may be an opportunity for online therapy to be integrated into treatment, but not as the primary modality. Some people simply enjoy or value the process and routine of going to an office setting, which online therapy would struggle to replicate!

You can choose to share the session notes with your primary care provider. You will be asked if you want a copy of your after-visit summary to be shared with your primary care provider. If you choose to share your after-visit summary, Amwell will electronically transmit your after-visit summary. You can also print the notes and save them for your own file or share with other healthcare professionals yourself. You may also decide not to share this information. The choice is yours.

Neurosis can be best conceptualized by a mental health professional as symptoms of depression and/or anxiety, and therefore responds very well to the many evidence-based practices developed for depression and anxiety. These include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness, acceptance, and commitment therapy (ACT), and many others. Therapists are trained to help individuals recognize negative thinking patterns and behaviors, identify opportunities for change, increase their ability to recognize and manage their emotional experiences and improve interactions with others. This can all be considered standard psychological care, which the concept of neurosis responds very well to. Online therapy can be a very effective modality for the treatment of neurosis and neuroticism. In some cases, a psychiatric medication evaluation may also be quite helpful in addressing these symptoms.

You have the option to share the session notes with your primary care provider. You will be asked if you want a copy of your after-visit summary to be shared with your primary care provider. If you choose to share your after-visit summary, Amwell will fax or electronically transmit your after-visit summary. You can also print the notes and save them for your own file or share with other healthcare professionals. You may also decide not to share this information. The choice is yours.

Unfortunately, no. Doctors on Amwell are there to support your care between office visits, such as when you are traveling or when you have a non-emergency or low acuity health condition.

Neuroticism continues to sometimes be used in conceptualizations of personality traits, though like neurosis, it is not an official diagnosis. The five-factor model of personality, which is used in personality evaluations across a wide range of cultures, identifies neuroticism as one of the five primary personality traits that all individuals experience on a spectrum of severity and intensity. The other four traits are extraversion, agreeability, conscientiousness, and openness, and we all experience these traits in various intensities, with the average individual being somewhere in the 'middle' range. Neuroticism is a long-term general tendency toward negative emotions and chronic distress. Unlike neurosis, which was formerly used to describe a diagnosable set of psychiatric symptoms, neuroticism is a personality trait and not a medical condition. The two terms are often confused. A person with high levels of neuroticism may be more sensitive to environmental stress, prone to sadness and depression, have a tendency towards self-doubt, experience some instability in their emotions, and generally have the experience of feeling anxious more often than others. Over time, neuroticism can make a person more prone to anxiety, mood disorders, and other negative social and emotional outcomes as they have more difficulty navigating everyday stressors and frustrations than others may. Personality traits, as understood by mental health professionals, tend to be a more chronic, long-lasting, ongoing way of feeling and experiencing the world, but that does not mean that personality traits are out of our control or cannot be changed. With insight, willingness, and therapy, it is entirely possible to make small changes, practice coping skills, and learn new ways of managing emotions and interacting with the world that can add up significant improvement in mood and satisfaction with life. -------- All feelings, even negative or distressing emotions such as anxiety and sadness (formerly called neurosis in some cases), have a distinct and important purpose that ultimately contributes to our survival and functioning. Anxiety, which corresponds most closely with neurosis, is a form of fear. Fear and our body and mind's response to fear is a very important experience as it keeps us alert to threats and danger. Fear triggers an adrenaline response, as well as our "fight or flight" response, which helps us to escape danger and threat. Without it, we long ago would've been much more likely to be prey to predators and succumb to other dangers. Nowadays, anxiety helps us to prepare for important events or tasks, alerts us to potential concerns or dangerous situations. For example, it is beneficial to feel a bit nervous the first time you learn to drive a car or before an important test, as this makes us more likely to prepare appropriately and pay attention to our surroundings. So someone with a tendency towards neuroticism may have times when their sensitivity to threat is beneficial to them. But as with any normal emotional experience, there are times when the intensity of the feeling is disproportionate to the situation, and the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with our daily functioning. It is at this point that seeking professional help is important.

Entering counseling is a big step in caring for yourself, and your relationship with your therapist is an important part of your success in treatment. Do not be hesitant to interview more than one therapist to find the therapist that has the experience, qualifications, and professional skills that allows you to be the best you can be. A good therapist will respect your choice to do so.

Yes, just make sure to select the state you’re in under My Location and you’ll only see therapists licensed to see you in that state. When using the app, you can choose to update your current state based on mobile geolocation, making it faster to find a doctor, whether you are home or on the go.

The bacteria that cause strep throat — group A Streptococcus — can cause a red rash that’s often accompanied by sore throat and fever. This is called scarlet fever, or scarlatina. The rash starts as flat red blotches and later turns into tiny bumps that have a rough, sandpapery feel. While the rash may show up first on the neck, underarm, or groin area, it can spread to the rest of the body. It can also appear brighter red in areas such as the elbows and underarms. In addition, scarlet fever can cause your tongue to look red and bumpy.

Scarlet fever is usually a mild infection and is treated with antibiotics. The rash typically fades in about a week, but the skin can peel for several weeks afterward.

Yes, by dialing 1-844-SEE-DOCS you can connect with agents who can assist you with whatever it is you’re looking for, including enrollment, connecting with a doctor, or answering any technical support questions.

Seeking support from a medical professional is a big step in caring for yourself, and your relationship with your psychiatrist is an important part of your success in treatment. Do not be hesitant to interview more than one psychiatrist to find one that is the best fit for you. A good psychiatrist will respect your choice to do so.

Chemical conjunctivitis is not contagious and occurs as a reaction to chemical-based irritants. This condition could be caused by smoke from vehicles, noxious chemicals, chlorine in swimming pools, etc. Common symptoms include redness, swelling, and decreased vision, along with severe pain in the eye.

Don't see your question? Don't worry. Just e-mail support@americanwell.com or call 877-410-5548. We have highly trained health service specialists standing by to take your call, 24/7.

Collaborative Care Psychiatry is when our psychiatrist cares for you in coordination and partnership with your primary care provider. Another term for this is Integrated Care.

An online therapy session is essentially the same as an office visit but it is from the convenience of the location of your choosing. You will be asked about your current emotional symptoms, potential factors contributing to these symptoms, your history and what you would like to be accomplished in therapy. Using all of this information your therapist will come up with a thorough assessment and treatment plan recommendations. This will be an ongoing conversation and can change if your needs change over time.

Yes, just make sure to select the state you’re in under My Location and you’ll only see doctors licensed to treat you in that state. When using the app, you can choose to update your current state based on mobile geolocation, making it faster to find a doctor, whether you are home or on the go. Doctor visits via telehealth are permitted in every state nationwide.

While medication can be a useful tool for some in the treatment of anxiety and depression, there are many other therapeutic interventions that can also be effective when addressing neurosis. These include therapy with a mental health professional, mindfulness, meditation and relaxation, exercise, a healthy diet and sleep, and minimal use of alcohol or other substances.

Strep throat is caused by bacteria, called group A Streptococcus, that live in your nose and throat. It spreads when people who are infected cough or sneeze, releasing tiny droplets that carry the bacteria. You can catch strep throat if you breathe in those droplets or touch something that has droplets on it and then touch your nose or mouth. You can also catch strep throat by using an eating utensil that an infected person has used, or by touching skin sores — called impetigo — that are caused by group A strep.

While we hope to soon be available internationally, we currently only operate in the United States.

Because doing so provides you with the highest quality care and most improves your overall health. Other important reasons to receive psychiatric care this way are safety, wellness, and efficiency.

After you’ve come in contact with group A Streptococcus, the bacteria that cause strep throat, it usually takes two to five days before you feel ill. You may not even know you were exposed to the illness. That’s because people who are infected with group A strep may not have symptoms. You are most contagious when you have a fever over 100.4 but can be contagious to others for 48-hours before the symptoms begin.

 If you have strep throat, you can spread it to others until you have been taking antibiotic treatment for one to three days. Children with strep throat shouldn’t return to school or day care until they no longer have a fever and have been taking antibiotic treatment for 24 hours.

• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Keep your mental energy stable by avoiding greasy, sugary, high-fat, and processed foods.
• Keep stress in check by going on regular walks or taking an online exercise class.
• Write down your stress and anxiety triggers. Keeping a journal can help you identify problems to address on your own or discuss with a therapist.

While we hope to soon be available internationally, we currently only operate in the United States.

In this model, there is more responsible oversight of controlled substance prescriptions, which is important due to their potential for addiction and the risks of combining controlled substances with other medications. Controlled substances being prescribed by more than one provider is a common occurrence, but can easily be avoided by us collaborating with your primary care provider. When appropriate, we will provide our recommendations to them and request that they prescribe you these types of medications in order to help avoid duplication of prescriptions, excessive use of the medications, and medication conflicts.

Yes, we have therapists in each state who are trained and experienced in treating children ages 10-17 with parental or guardian consent. As with the medical practice, the parent needs to add a sub-account to their own account to make an appointment for the child.

Children, under the age of 18, may be easily added to your Amwell account.

Yes. Strep throat is most common among children ages 5 to 15. It’s rare in children under the age of 3.

While strep throat is not very common in adults, some adults can be at higher risk of catching the illness. This includes parents of school-age children and adults who have a lot of contact with children and those under high stress.

A panic attack is a sudden period of intense fear. These attacks come on fast and peak within minutes. Attacks can occur unexpectedly or can be brought on by a trigger, such as a feared object or situation. While it has become somewhat common to talk about “panic attacks,” a true panic episode requires multiple distinct symptoms and lasts for a short period of time. While true panic episodes are relatively rare, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or having difficulty recovering from anxiety is a much more common experience.

Studies repeatedly show that your overall health can be most improved by coordinating your mental and physical health care. Also, we realize that sometimes controlled substances are necessary to treat your condition, and we want you to receive the optimal treatment rather than offering you an alternative or second choice medication. As part of our collaborative approach, we may also recommend nutrition and/or talk therapy services to help you achieve optimal wellness.

A fever is a common symptom of strep throat. However, it is possible to be infected with group A Streptococcus, the bacteria that cause strep throat, and not have a fever — or any symptoms at all. People known as “carriers” can have the bacteria in their nose or throat without getting ill.

You can also be infected with group A strep but not have a fever because you are within the two- to five-day incubation period for the illness.

If you have other symptoms — such as a sore throat; red, swollen tonsils; or swollen glands — but no fever, your doctor may still want to test you for strep throat.

Yes, you can get a prescription online. There is support for this nationwide, however there are several exceptions. Learn more on our prescriptions page.

None of our therapists prescribe medication. In practice, the therapists are there to listen, understand your situation, identify more effective coping strategies and help you through difficult stages of life. However, physicians and psychiatrists on our system can prescribe most psychiatric medications for patients seen on our system. Our therapists work in collaboration with our physicians to provide this multi-disciplinary care resulting in efficient and effective care.

Doctors on Amwell will discuss your health history and assess whether a refill is safe at this time or whether it would be necessary to see your primary care physician in person. The decision to provide a refill and the quantity is at the sole discretion of the doctor. Be sure to share any information you have about your health history and condition that may help facilitate your refill, such as recent lab tests or blood pressure readings.

Health care costs and inconveniences are rising due largely to redundancy of services caused by poor communication between providers. To manage your conditions responsibly, laboratory and diagnostic testing and specialist referrals are occasionally needed either for accurate diagnosis or ongoing monitoring. As with controlled substances, these recommendations will be made and carried out through your primary care provider, again avoiding duplication of tests and providing the best coordination of your care.

You have the option to share the session notes with your primary care provider. You will be asked if you want a copy of your after-visit summary to be shared with your primary care provider. If you choose to share your after-visit summary, Amwell will fax or electronically transmit your after-visit summary. You can also print the notes and save them for your own file or share with other healthcare professionals. You may also decide not to share this information. The choice is yours.

Doctors on Amwell are able to provide simple forms like sick slips or back to work/school documents as clinically appropriate. Be sure to request the documentation before ending your conversation. Please note that doctors on Amwell are not able to provide more substantial documents like FMLA forms, disability forms or handicap/DMV documents as these documents require in in-person evaluation.

Entering counseling is a big step in caring for yourself, and your relationship with your therapist is an important part of your success in treatment. Do not be hesitant to interview more than one therapist to find the therapist that has the experience, qualifications, and professional skills that allows you to be the best you can be. A good therapist will respect your choice to do so.

The psychiatrist will perform the initial psychiatric evaluation and all follow up visits with you, make a diagnosis and revise it as necessary over time, and prescribe you the psychiatric medications needed to get you well. With your permission, after each visit he will send a copy of the visit note to your primary care provider so they know what medications have been prescribed for you. The only medications the psychiatrist will not prescribe to you directly are any controlled substances, but he can recommend in his note that your primary care provider prescribe those for you. Other things the psychiatrist may recommend to your primary care provider are to order any lab tests, diagnostic studies, or specialist referrals that the psychiatrist may feel are important in managing your condition.

Doctors on Amwell are unable to order lab tests. Due to the nature of telehealth, it is difficult to follow up, obtain the results, and interpret these tests. Our providers may suggest following up with your in-person provider and obtaining a test, however they are unable to order a test on your behalf.

Don't see your question? Don't worry. Just e-mail support@americanwell.com or call 877-410-5548. We have highly trained health service specialists standing by to take your call, 24/7.

Certain medication that are potentially addictive are considered “controlled”, and can only be prescribed by a provider who has met you in person first, as per the federal regulation, The Ryan Haight Act of 2008. Examples of controlled medications are:

Many therapeutic techniques that are practiced in a brick and mortar setting can effectively be used in telehealth as well.  As mental health clinicians, our primary tool is our voice and our language, and telehealth presents no barriers to their use!  Many therapists are practicing the same types of therapy online as they do in a brick and mortar setting.  Telehealth technology can support individuals, couples, family, and group therapy.  Therapists frequently use evidence-based treatment such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, and others.  

You may choose to share this information. You will be asked if you want a copy of your after-visit summary to be shared with your primary care provider. If you choose to share your after-visit summary, Amwell will fax or electronically transmit your after-visit summary to your PCP. You may also decide not to share this information. The choice is yours.

Once your primary care provider has received the visit note from your psychiatrist recommending these medications be prescribed for you, you can call your primary care provider’s office and see if they will call those medications into your pharmacy for you to pick up. Your primary care provider may want you to schedule and come in for a visit with them first before they will prescribe these medications in some cases. In other cases, you may find that your primary care provider does not want to work collaboratively and does not agree to help you in this way. Should this be the case, one option is to consider finding a primary care provider who believes in collaborative care, wants to see that you get the help you need, and is willing to be part of this safe and thoughtful process.

The primary care provider’s role in collaborating with the psychiatrist is to receive and review the visit noted sent by your psychiatrist, and consider following the recommendations that have been made. These recommendations may include prescribing a controlled medication, ordering laboratory or diagnostic tests, and making a referral to a specialist for evaluation of other possible relevant conditions. The primary care doctor will see that copies of all such tests and evaluations are sent back to the psychiatrist for his record. Finally, if the primary care provider has any concerns over how the psychiatric medications may be affecting your physical health or other medical medications, he will communicate this to your psychiatrist for his consideration.

Don't see your question? Don't worry. Just e-mail support@americanwell.com or call 1-855-818-3627. We have highly trained health service specialists standing by to take your call, 24/7.

When considering taking the step to seek mental health services, there is no need to question or worry about whether your problems are "big" enough to warrant it.  Everyone can benefit from mental health support at times throughout their lives, and it can be helpful to think of emotional wellness as just another aspect of your health to monitor and maintain.  Just as you visit a dentist or doctor for regular check-ups and non-urgent needs, our mental health benefits from proactive and regular attention.  It can be helpful to remember that therapy does not have to be a long term commitment; some people truly do benefit from one or two sessions, while others may be best helped by a longer course of treatment.  A good therapist will never question you for seeking care for your emotional wellness, we welcome anyone interested in improving their mental health!

The first online counseling session is all about getting to know one another, and also getting to know telehealth if you've never used it before.  Most people get comfortable with the technology very quickly and find that the screen tends to "fade away" a few minutes into a conversation.  Your therapist will ask you questions, both about what brought you to schedule a therapy appointment as well as about other areas of your life and experiences.  Their goal is to learn about you and your needs so they can best help you.  While it may be a new experience to have so much focus on yourself and your life, remember that you can go at a pace most comfortable for you.  The therapist will also want to be sure they are going to be able to best meet your needs.  Just as in any other setting, therapists have various strengths, weaknesses, and areas of skill that may not be exactly what you need.  The first therapy session is also a chance for you to think about whether the therapist is a good match for you!  One of the most important factors in successful therapy is a positive connection between the therapist and client, and it is important that you as a client be sure that you feel comfortable with a therapist and confident that they will be able to help you.  We encourage patients to feel empowered to work with a therapist they feel connected to, even if that isn't the first person they try.  You'll also start talking about goals, or what you hope to get out of therapy.  While it can help to think ahead about these things prior to your first session, don't worry if you aren't sure what your goals are or even the exact reasons why you felt motivated to start therapy.  These things can be hard to put into words, and therapists are trained to help people start from scratch in better understanding their thoughts, feelings, and potential areas of improvement.  The important thing is to take that first step!

All of Amwell's services are available without insurance. Your visit will be charged to your credit card. Urgent care visits are just $79. 

Besides regularly sharing notes and test results back and forth, there will be a secure voicemail line for your psychiatrist that your primary care provider will have access to allowing them to either speak on the phone or leave each other messages. It is very important that you do not use this voicemail to communicate with your psychiatrist, as it is for primary care providers only and using it may prevent other doctors from being able to communicate with our psychiatrists. Please be aware that your psychiatrist will not respond to messages left on this line by patients.

Call your primary care provider’s office and obtain their office fax number. You will need to enter your doctor’s fax number on our platform to enable us to coordinate your care. When you call your primary care provider’s office, inform the office that you will be getting your psychiatric care online and that they will be getting a note from your psychiatric visit outlining your diagnosis and treatment plan which may contain specific requests for your primary care provider. Advocate for yourself by explaining that you would like for them to work together with your psychiatric provider, who will be available to discuss your care with them anytime.

Yes, during your visit just ask the doctor to write you a doctor's note and you will get a secure message with the sick slip attached. This note is stored in your account under both secure messages and past visits. If you're having trouble printing the note from mobile you can log in through the desktop version and print directly from there.

All sorts of people with all sorts of symptoms, experiences, and struggles have benefitted from therapy. Broadly speaking, the only real requirement for therapy is that you have some degree of motivation to be there. It can be small, and it can ebb and flow, but without some willingness to participate in treatment, a therapist is hardpressed to offer any help. With willingness and an open mind, anyone can benefit from therapy. Online therapy in particular can help break down some of the most common barriers to accessing mental health care. The technology allows you to have a therapy appointment from nearly any location that is convenient and comfortable to you. There is no travel to an office, and telehealth provides access to a wider selection of clinicians for those with limited local mental health resources. Going to an office setting, sitting in a waiting room, etc can be uncomfortable for some, and telehealth affords the privacy and anonymity of treatment from your own home. Because telehealth offers flexibility to therapists as well, there is generally more availability for appointments in evenings, early mornings, weekends, holidays, and other times outside of traditional office hours. The video technology is simple to use from devices many folks already own, and most people find that the screen tends to "fade away" after the first few minutes of a therapy appointment. Online therapy breaks down barriers to bring effective and convenient mental health treatment to people who may not otherwise be able to access it- try it yourself to see!

It can help to think a bit about what prompted you to seek therapy and what you may want to get out of therapy before your first session and on an ongoing basis. Identifying goals to work towards is always a good thing. But it's also okay if you aren't sure of what you want to achieve in therapy, or maybe aren't even sure of what to talk about. Therapists are trained and experienced in helping people get comfortable with therapy, answering questions, and working with you to set a path. Therapy is most effective when you continue the work between sessions. This may mean simply reflecting on what you and your therapist discuss, noticing changes in your thoughts or behavior, practicing new skills or suggesting activities, journaling, or even completing "homework assignments" such as suggested reading, worksheets, thought or mood logs, etc. The more you put in, the more you get out!

Don't see your question? Don't worry. Just email support@americanwell.com or call 855-818-3627. We have highly trained health service specialists standing by to take your call, 24/7.

To keep health information private each adult must create their own account. Children under 18 may be added to their parents account.

If you think you’re experiencing a medical emergency, please do not use telehealth. Instead, you should immediately seek emergency care by calling 911.

There are certain medications that have been approved for weight loss in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise routine. Most weight loss supplements that you can buy over the counter have little evidence to support their weight loss claims.

The best meal plans and programs will vary based on lifestyle choices, existing health conditions, and dietary restrictions. Here are some questions to consider when choosing a weight loss plan:

Structured versus unstructured program? For example, are you signing up for a 12-week program that includes regular, mandatory visits with a nutritionist or doctor or is it a program that you can meet with the provider at your will? For some individuals, having regular check-ins with a provider is preferable to stay on track and for accountability.

To lose weight, base your diet on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein and healthful fats like olive oil, nuts, seeds, and nut butters. Avoid or limit refined, processed foods like white bread, white rice, sugary snacks and breakfast cereals.

Foods that trigger IBS symptoms vary from person to person. Some foods that have been identified as triggers include: 

• Chocolate
• Spices
• Fats
• Fruits

There are two strains of probiotics that have been identified as most helpful for IBS symptoms, though there is limited evidence regarding their effectiveness. These strains are Lactobacillus (such as L. acidophilus, L. plantarum, L. rhamnosus) and Bifidobacterium (such as B. infantis (Align), B. longum, B. bifidum).

Medications for IBS vary based on the form of IBS. Some medications that aid in the treatment of IBS include:

• Fiber supplements
• Anti-diarrheal medications
• Anticholinergic and antispasmodic medications
• Antidepressant medications
• Antibiotics

Some activities that may provide relief for carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms include:

• Shaking your hands in a motion similar to when you’ve washed your hands and want to air dry them.
• Make a fist and then fan your fingers out, stretching them until they are completely straight.
• Sit upright with hands straight out and in line with shoulders. Face palms up, perpendicular with forearms, then flip them downwards, forming a claw. Repeat.
• Place your forearm on the table and hold a relatively light weight in your hand. Flex wrist up and down without moving forearm off the table.

Wrist braces provide relief from carpal tunnel symptoms because they keep your wrist straight. When your wrist is held straight by the brace, it will take pressure off the median nerve, which is what causes carpal tunnel syndrome.

Research shows that losing just 5 to 10 percent of your body weight can improve overall health and well-being and reduce risk for chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease.