THE SHORT ANSWER
An asynchronous visit lets a clinician review health information you submit without everyone being online at the same time. A synchronous visit happens live, such as a video appointment. The appropriate format depends on your location, the treatment, and your clinical needs.
What to keep in mind
- Both formats can involve a clinician’s assessment.
- No-video care is not automatic approval.
- A live visit may still be requested.
What does asynchronous mean?
In asynchronous telehealth, information is submitted and reviewed at different times. Depending on the service, this can include a health questionnaire, messages, documents, or requested photographs. It is different from a live appointment and does not mean an instant automated prescribing decision.
How does it compare with a live visit?
One format is not automatically the right answer for every concern. A clinician can ask for additional information or recommend another care setting.
| Question | Asynchronous | Live appointment |
|---|---|---|
| Do we meet at the same time? | Usually no | Yes |
| How is information shared? | Assessment and secure care channels | Real-time conversation, with other records as needed |
| Who chooses the appropriate format? | Care requirements and clinical assessment | Care requirements and clinical assessment |
What happens at TellyMeds?
Most visits begin with an online health assessment reviewed by a clinician without a live video appointment. Some states and medications require a live telehealth visit. Your clinician may also request one based on your care needs.
Use the secure patient portal for the assessment, appointment information, and clinical messages. The public website is for browsing care and information, not for submitting your medical history.
How can I prepare?
Gather relevant medical history, your medicine list, and the questions you want answered. For a scheduled live appointment, follow the care team’s connection instructions and choose a private setting. Ask support for access help if you cannot locate the invitation.
- Know where your appointment or assessment link is.
- Read the instructions before you begin.
- Use the secure channel for clinical records.
- Ask how and when to follow up after the review.
Common questions
Can I insist on no video for every medication?
No. Location, medication requirements, and clinical needs can make a live visit necessary.
Does an online assessment guarantee a prescription?
No. The clinician determines whether a prescription or another next step is appropriate.
Sources & context
Sources checked September 18, 2026. This is general education, not a diagnosis or individualized treatment advice. Medication examples do not establish availability or suitability.
