Learn about convenient telehealth care for eligible Texans.

Texas STAR Medicaid Virtual Doctor Visits From Home

Understanding convenient healthcare access through Texas Medicaid.

Finding time for a doctor's appointment can be challenging, especially when you're balancing work, family responsibilities, transportation, and everyday commitments.

For eligible Texas STAR Medicaid members, virtual healthcare may provide another way to connect with a medical provider.

VirtualCare2go™ offers telehealth services throughout Texas, allowing patients to discuss appropriate medical concerns with a healthcare provider without traveling to a traditional clinic.

What Is Texas STAR Medicaid?

STAR is a Texas Medicaid managed care program that provides healthcare coverage to eligible individuals and families.

Members receive covered healthcare services through a participating managed care organization, or health plan.

Depending on eligibility and plan requirements, STAR benefits may include primary care, preventive services, specialist care, prescriptions, and other medically necessary healthcare.

Telehealth coverage depends on the member's specific plan, the service provided, and applicable Medicaid requirements.

Does Texas STAR Medicaid Cover Virtual Doctor Visits?

Texas Medicaid supports certain healthcare services delivered through telemedicine and telehealth.

However, not every virtual service is covered in every situation.

Coverage may depend on:

• Your STAR managed care organization
• Whether the healthcare provider participates in your network
• The medical reason for your appointment
• The type of virtual service requested
• Referral or authorization requirements, when applicable

Before scheduling, patients should confirm their plan's benefits and provider network.

What Medical Concerns Can Be Addressed Through Telehealth?

Virtual care may be appropriate for a variety of non-emergency healthcare concerns.

Virtual Urgent Care

Depending on your symptoms, an online provider may evaluate concerns such as:

• Cold and flu-like symptoms
• Seasonal allergies
• Mild respiratory symptoms
• Certain skin concerns
• Minor digestive complaints
• Other non-emergency medical issues

Some conditions require physical examinations, testing, or in-person treatment.

Primary Care and Follow-Up Visits

Telehealth may also support certain ongoing healthcare needs, including discussing symptoms, reviewing treatment plans, and following up on previously evaluated conditions.

Your provider will determine whether a virtual visit is appropriate.

Healthcare Guidance

Sometimes patients need help understanding whether their symptoms require further evaluation.

A virtual visit may help identify appropriate next steps, including when in-person care is necessary.

Why Do Texas Families Choose Virtual Healthcare?

For many patients, transportation and scheduling can make traditional appointments more difficult.

Telehealth can reduce some of these challenges by allowing eligible patients to connect with healthcare providers from home.

Potential advantages include:

• Less time spent traveling
• Convenient access from a smartphone or computer
• Flexible scheduling when appointments are available
• Easier follow-up for certain healthcare concerns
• Reduced disruption to daily responsibilities

Virtual care is not a replacement for every type of medical appointment, but it can be a useful part of a patient's overall healthcare plan.

How to Prepare for Your Medicaid Virtual Visit

Before your appointment, gather your insurance information, medication list, and details about your symptoms.

You should also confirm that your device has a working internet connection and that you have a private space to discuss your health.

If your plan requires a designated primary care provider or referral, verify those requirements before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Texas STAR Medicaid for an online doctor appointment?

Certain virtual medical services may be covered. Eligibility depends on your specific STAR health plan, the provider's network participation, and the service requested.

Can children use Medicaid telehealth services?

Some pediatric healthcare services may be delivered through telehealth. Age eligibility, clinical appropriateness, and provider availability should be confirmed before scheduling.

Can a virtual doctor prescribe medication?

A licensed provider may prescribe medically appropriate medications when permitted by law and supported by the evaluation. Prescriptions are never guaranteed.

What if my condition requires laboratory testing?

Your provider may recommend an in-person examination or testing at an appropriate facility.

Is virtual urgent care available throughout Texas?

VirtualCare2go serves eligible patients across Texas, subject to provider availability and clinical appropriateness.

Explore Virtual Healthcare in Texas

Access to healthcare should be practical and understandable.

If you have Texas STAR Medicaid and are considering an online medical appointment, checking your benefits and provider network is an important first step.

Learn more about Virtual Urgent Care, visit VirtualCare2go, or request a virtual appointment.

Insurance acceptance does not guarantee coverage for every STAR managed care plan. Patients should verify network participation, benefits, and any applicable costs before scheduling.