What Is Virtual Urgent Care?

And why it matters for employers and benefits leaders

When an employee wakes up with strep symptoms, twists an ankle, or needs a prescription refill, the first stop is often an urgent care clinic. But traditional urgent care comes with long waits, high costs, and time away from work.

That’s where virtual urgent care comes in.

Virtual Urgent Care Defined

Virtual urgent care gives employees 24/7 access to board-certified doctors — via phone, app, or website — without the waiting room or paperwork. From common illnesses like sinus infections and the flu to minor injuries and medication refills, care is delivered in minutes, at no cost to employees.

For employers, it’s a virtual care solution that boosts engagement, cuts down on unnecessary ER visits, and reduces overall healthcare spend.

Why Employers and Benefits Leaders Are Paying Attention

• Accessibility: Virtual urgent care breaks down barriers to care. Employees get help when and where they need it, improving benefits utilization.

• Cost Savings: With $0 copays and no claims to process, first stop health's virtual urgent care is a cost-effective employee wellness solution.

• Better Experience: Employees avoid time off work and stressful clinic visits, making it a benefit they’ll actually use.

• Engagement Engine: Urgent care often serves as the “front door” to broader virtual primary care, virtual mental health, and specialist care — increasing adoption of your overall benefits strategy.

Why It Matters

For benefits consultants, virtual urgent care is a proof point: it’s the fastest way to demonstrate ROI on virtual care programs. For employers, it’s a powerful virtual care partner strategy that drives healthier, happier employees while controlling costs.

Bottom line: Virtual urgent care isn’t just about treating coughs and colds—it’s about creating a smarter first step in your employee wellness journey.

Convenient access to care, year-long employee engagement, high utilization and guaranteed savings. Learn how we make a difference with our Virtual Urgent Care overview.