Diagnosing & Treating a UTI Online

Urinary tract infections are one of the most common conditions doctors on TelaCare treat online.

Although it is more common for women to contract bladder infections, men are not immune. Some mild UTIs can be treated with over-the-counter remedies, but most will require antibiotics and other medical intervention. Although anyone can get a urinary tract infection, there are several factors that may make a patient more susceptible to an infection, such as exposure to unsanitary water, blockages in the urinary tract, frequent sexual activity, keeping a full bladder, or lack of proper hygiene.

During a video consult on TelaCare your doctor will ask you a series of targeted questions to determine if your symptoms point to a UTI. Then your provider will proceed to determine the best treatment plan for you. Your provider may recommend in-person examination by a specialist if this is needed. Your treatment plan is based on the duration and severity of your symptoms and your medical history. If you have a history of urinary tract infections, be sure to mention this to the doctor as it may precipitate a change in what medication is prescribed. If you are unsure whether or not what you are experiencing is a urinary tract infection, an over the counter urine test can be used to help make the diagnosis.

Once a likely diagnosis has been made, your doctor will go over the risks and benefits of the various plans.  Depending on the cause and severity of the infection, your plan for a UTI may include:

  • A recommendation of over the counter (OTC) pain medication or anti-itch cream to relieve discomfort
  • A prescription for an antibiotic
  • A referral to your primary care physician or nearest urgent care center for a urine sample

Note: If you are a male, pregnant or a female under 16, it is important to collect a urine sample before they are treated with antibiotics. If you fall in this category and your online doctor decides that you may have a UTI, you will need to see your primary care physician or local urgent care center for testing.

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Got Questions? We've got answers.

See below for answers to some of our most common questions. You can also call us anytime 24 hours a day at 1-800-317-0280 to speak to a medical professional about your symptoms or conditions.



 Does TelaCare offer refunds?

No, All sales are final, and no refunds will be offered or accepted on services purchased from TelaCare. As we are a medical benefits company like any other benefit, once you accept our terms and conditions, you have purchased our services and accept this refund policy as a whole. Services can be canceled in the system at your discretion under account settings if your account is completed. Your satisfaction with your purchase is essential to us. If you are unsatisfied with your purchase for any reason, please contact us at support@telacare.com


 Can I get a prescription online?

Yes, in general you can get a prescription online. There is support for this nationwide, however there are several exceptions. 


 Does cranberry juice actually help with UTI?

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.

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.

 Can I add my spouse to my account?

Yes you can add them, however your spouse and dependents over 18 will need to manage their own account. Children under 18 may be added to their parents account.

 Can you have sex with a UTI?

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.

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

 I cannot login to my account what do I do?

If you cannot access your account first, make sure you have REGISTERED YOUR ACCOUNT. If you still cannot sign in then use the FORGOT PASSWORD to get a new password. Please make sure to check your spam/junk folders as sometimes our emails maybe caught in them. If you still cannot get into your account please email support@telacare.com and our support staff will assist you.

 What if I do not have health insurance?

All of TelaCare's services are available without insurance. You have unlimited visits with your membership or employer group plan.

 Will I be charged more if I talk to a doctor on weekends, holidays or at night?

No. TelaCare offers 24/7/365 access no matter when you visit with the doctor, therapist or medical specialist.

 Why would I see a doctor online?

Illness or injury can strike at any time. TelaCare 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:

    • I feel like I should probably see a doctor, but can’t really fit it into my over-booked schedule.
    • It’s difficult for me to get a doctor’s appointment.
    • I’m not sure if I should go to the ER or not.
    • My doctor’s office is closed and I don’t want to go to an urgent care clinic or hospital
    • I just moved and don’t know any doctors in my area.
    • I just need a second opinion.
    • I’m between jobs and have no coverage.
    • I have a question about a loved-one’s health and would like some advice.

     Do I need to schedule an appointment?

    TelaCare is designed for on-demand care so no appointment is necessary. After you register and log in to TelaCare, the next available doctor will see you. If no one is available, you will be placed in a "waiting room" and notified by text message once a doctor is available. If you need to have an appointment at a later time you can select a time that is convenient for you and the doctor will call you then as well.

     Can my kids see a doctor on TelaCare?

    Children, under the age of 18, may be easily added to your TelaCare account. If your child is over the age of 18 then you can add them but they must complete their own profile and request consults on their own.

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