How can we help?
Answers to the questions people ask most. In a medical emergency, call 911.
Visits
How do I start a visit?
Tap Start my visit, answer a few quick questions, and a licensed clinician picks up the conversation by text.
What can you treat by text?
Common, everyday care: colds and flu, sinus and allergies, urinary infections, skin and acne, plus ongoing care like blood pressure and birth control. If you need to be seen in person, your clinician will tell you.
Are there in-person clinics?
Not yet. Today Arcus is visits by text, with labs and pharmacies near you. Clinics come next, on the same record, so your care never starts over.
Insurance and costs
Do you take my insurance?
Arcus works with your insurance. Before your visit we check your eligibility and show you what your plan covers, so nothing comes as a surprise.
Will I know the cost before I pay?
Yes. You see what your plan covers and what you'll owe before your visit, a lab test or a prescription.
What is prior authorization?
Some plans need to approve a medication or a test before they'll cover it. We file that request for you and tell you where it stands in your thread.
Prescriptions
Which pharmacy do you use?
The one you already use. We send your prescription there, sort out coverage and prior authorization, and text you when it's ready.
Can I get a refill?
Yes. Start a visit and ask for one. Your clinician reviews it, then we send it to your pharmacy and text you when it's ready.
Do you prescribe controlled substances?
No. Arcus prescribes nearly every other medication, but not controlled substances like opioids or ADHD stimulants.
Lab tests
How do lab tests work?
Your clinician orders the test during your visit. We book a lab near you, confirm your plan covers it, and put the results in your record with a note on what they mean.
Where do my results go?
Into your record, with a note from your clinician on what they mean. If something needs a follow-up, they'll text you.
Privacy and safety
Is my health information private?
Yes. Your health information is protected under HIPAA, and it's shared only with the people and services involved in your care. Read our HIPAA notice and privacy policy.
Is Arcus for emergencies?
No. In a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Still have a question?
Start a visit and ask it in your thread. A licensed clinician will answer by text.
Start my visit