Frequently asked questions about Virtual First Primary Care
What is Virtual First Primary Care?
Virtual First Primary Care combines the convenience of virtual care with the long-term support of a trusted primary care provider (PCP). With most visits taking place online, you can get the care you need without spending as much time traveling to and from appointments.
Common questions about Virtual First Primary Care
Choosing a new PCP is an important decision. Whether you’re comparing care options, wondering how virtual visits work, or trying to decide if Virtual First Primary Care is right for you and your family, these answers can help you get started.
When you establish care with us, our team becomes your primary provider and manages your ongoing health care needs. Virtual First Primary Care may be a good fit if you want a long-term relationship with a PCP, prefer virtual appointments whenever possible, and are comfortable coming to our offices in Lancaster for in-person care when needed. If your previous provider is part of Penn Medicine, we can easily access your medical records.
No. Virtual First Primary Care is a primary care practice that provides ongoing care and helps manage your health over time. We provide preventive care, wellness and sick visits, and chronic condition management.
Virtual urgent care focuses on one-time treatment for immediate health concerns. If you cannot immediately schedule with your PCP or need care after hours for an urgent, non-life-threatening condition and aren’t looking for ongoing primary care, Penn Medicine OnDemand can help.
Although most care is delivered virtually, some health concerns require an office visit. In-person care is required for physical exams, vaccinations, testing, or concerns that require hands-on evaluation. If your provider recommends in-person care, you’ll be scheduled at a Lancaster-area location.
Virtual First Primary Care providers are available during regular practice hours. If you need care outside of those hours, virtual urgent care or an urgent care center may be appropriate options depending on your needs. For medical emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Yes. Your provider can prescribe new medications when appropriate, and refill maintenance medications as part of your ongoing care.
Yes. Virtual First Primary Care welcomes people of all ages. Children younger than 5 may need more in-person visits to support their health and development.
You can join virtual appointments from a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet access. Virtual PCP visits can be scheduled online or through MyLGHealth. Virtual visits must take place while you are physically located in Pennsylvania.
No, there is no membership fee for Virtual First Primary Care. Visits are billed through your insurance the same way they would be at a traditional primary care office. Standard copays, deductibles, and coinsurance may apply.
We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. Coverage and out-of-pocket costs vary by plan.