Care, explained

Looking past the telehealth prescription form

QUESTION MAP

What happens after the form?

Make room for a conversation about your health and the options that fit it.

A form starts a conversation

The Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) advises against using only a form with preset questions to prescribe, as of September 2026.

FSMB is made up of state boards that are responsible for overseeing doctors. Its guidance calls for a doctor who can ask more questions about your answers.

These are recommendations for state medical boards. Each state makes the rules that apply to care there.

Bring your health history

Have your medicine list, past illnesses, and questions beside you. Include medicines and supplements even if they seem unrelated.

The medicine labels reviewed in September 2026 call for checks on past illnesses, other medicines, and pregnancy plans.

Tell the person treating you about thyroid cancer in the family, serious stomach problems, other diabetes medicines, and any planned surgery.

Read which health problems rule out use

Writing down your history leaves more time for your own questions.

Leave room for another step

FSMB recommends that the doctor arrange tests or an in-person visit if these are needed to check your health.

Ask what happens if the online visit cannot tell whether the medicine is suitable for you. Ask who receives any test results.

Questions to take to the person treating you

Mark the questions you want to bring into the conversation.

Questions for a care service

Read what an assessment needs