Can You Do a Virtual Visit for a UTI?

Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care is steadfastly committed to meeting the changing healthcare needs of the communities we serve, which is why we’re pleased to offer virtual visits to adult and pediatric patients. Through our telemedicine services, patients can consult with our clinicians “face-to-face” using a smartphone, tablet, or webcam-enabled computer while remaining comfortable at home.

Virtual visits are ideal for patients with routine, non-life-threatening health concerns, including urinary tract infections (UTIs). Especially common in women, UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and accumulate, causing an infection and uncomfortable symptoms like:

• A frequent, strong urge to urinate, even when the bladder is empty
• Unusually dark, cloudy, or strong-smelling urine
• Burning sensations or pain while urinating
• Blood in urine
• Pelvic pain (in women)
• Rectal pain (in men)

UTIs most often occur in the lower urinary tract, which includes the bladder, ureters, and urethra.

When Should I Seek Care for a UTI?

It’s important to promptly seek medical care if you begin to experience symptoms of a UTI. If left untreated, bacteria can spread upward to the kidneys and cause symptoms that are more severe and difficult to treat. Sepsis—a life-threatening illness—may occur as a result of an untreated infection.

How Is a UTI Treated?

Contrary to popular belief, no amount of cranberry juice can cure a UTI (although research shows it may help prevent one). In the large majority of cases, a regimen of antibiotics is necessary to clear the infection. A much less common occurrence, UTIs caused by viruses or fungi will require antiviral or antifungal medications. Most patients feel significantly better in just a day or two after starting treatment, although it’s important to continue taking medications as prescribed to ensure the infection is completely eliminated.

What Happens During a Virtual Visit?

Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care makes it simple to schedule a telemedicine appointment—here’s what to do:

• Click the red “Book a Virtual Visit” button at the top of the screen.
• Choose your state of residence (Connecticut or New York).
• Select “Book Now” and pick an appointment time.

Virtual visits can be schedule between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. during the week and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on the weekends. During your Virtual Visit, you’ll speak with an experienced clinician who will ask questions about your symptoms, answer any questions you may have, and suggest an appropriate course of treatment. UTI treatment typically involves prescription medication, so we’ll most likely send a prescription to the pharmacy of your choosing for convenient pick-up. In-person follow-up care may also be recommended at one of our conveniently located urgent care centers.

We’re Here for You

Receive top-quality UTI treatment without ever leaving home with a virtual visit from Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care. Our team accepts most health insurance plans and offers sensible self-pay rates for telemedicine services. We look forward to helping you achieve your best health!