How can I get pink eye treatment online in New York?
Adults who are physically in New York can book a same-day video visit with Parth Bhavsar, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician licensed in New York (license 345804). That includes New Yorkers anywhere in the state, from the five boroughs of New York City to Long Island, the Hudson Valley, the Capital Region, Rochester, Syracuse and Buffalo, and visitors staying in New York for work or travel: New York licensing follows where you are during the visit, not your home address. Every visit is with a physician, not a rotating nurse practitioner network. The fee is a flat $79, shown before you book and paid at booking. TeleDirectMD does not bill insurance in New York; HSA and FSA cards are accepted. Prescriptions, when appropriate, are sent electronically to the New York pharmacy you choose.
Pink Eye Treatment via telehealth in New York:
TeleDirectMD offers same-day video visits with a board-certified MD for pink eye in New York, for a flat $79 self-pay fee. A physician evaluates your symptoms, confirms the diagnosis, and sends a prescription to your local pharmacy — no waiting room required.
Pink Eye · Online Treatment in New York
Pink Eye Treatment in New York (Conjunctivitis)
New York adult care by secure video visit, flat $79 self-pay option, MD-only, insurance is not required.
Yes — adults (18+) in New York with pink eye can be evaluated online. A board-certified MD reviews your discharge type and symptoms by secure video to distinguish bacterial, viral, or allergic conjunctivitis, then prescribes antibiotic drops like erythromycin ointment or polymyxin B/trimethoprim if bacterial, or antihistamine drops if allergic, sent to your pharmacy same day. Visit price: $79 flat, no insurance required. Steroid drops are never prescribed without a slit-lamp exam. Vision changes, severe worsening eye pain, or copious discharge need in-person evaluation.
Conjunctivitis (pink eye) is one of the most common eye complaints in outpatient medicine, with bacterial, viral, and allergic forms each requiring a different treatment approach. According to a JAMA Ophthalmology systematic review, the majority of bacterial conjunctivitis cases are self-limiting within one to two weeks, though topical antibiotics can shorten the course and allow earlier return to work and daily activities. Viral conjunctivitis, often associated with adenovirus and upper respiratory infections, has no specific antiviral treatment and resolves with supportive care over two to three weeks. Allergic conjunctivitis affects up to 40 percent of the population and responds to allergen avoidance, antihistamine drops, and mast cell stabilizers. TeleDirectMD uses a safety-first telehealth approach that screens for red flags including significant vision changes, severe eye pain, photophobia, and signs of corneal involvement before determining whether treatment by video visit is appropriate. If the history supports uncomplicated conjunctivitis without red flags, evidence-based treatment including topical antibiotics or OTC allergy drops may be recommended by video, while adults with signs suggesting keratitis, corneal ulcer, or gonococcal or chlamydial conjunctivitis are directed to ophthalmology or emergency care. This page is for adults located in New York, including New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, Yonkers, Syracuse, Albany, New Rochelle, Mount Vernon, Schenectady, Utica, and surrounding areas.
Quick navigation:
- Flat $79 self-pay option
- MD-only care (no mid-levels)
- Insurance is not required
- Licensed telehealth care for patients located in New York at the time of the visit
Last reviewed on 2026-10-07 by Parth Bhavsar, MD
ICD-10 commonly used: H10.9, H10.0, H10.1, H10.3, or B30.9 (final coding depends on clinical details)
Online MD-Only Pink Eye Care in New York
flat self-pay · insurance not required
- Evaluation for conjunctivitis symptoms including redness, discharge, and itching
- Red-flag screening for vision changes, severe pain, and corneal involvement
- Differentiation of bacterial, viral, and allergic conjunctivitis by history
- Clear follow-up steps and ophthalmology referral when needed
Adults 18+ only. TeleDirectMD is not an emergency service. Go to the ER or see an ophthalmologist now for significant vision changes or vision loss, severe eye pain, copious purulent discharge suggesting gonococcal infection, photophobia, suspected corneal ulcer, periorbital swelling with fever, or suspected herpes eye disease. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe controlled substances.
Pink Eye Telehealth Eligibility Checklist for New York
You are likely eligible for a TeleDirectMD video visit if ALL of these are true:
✓ You Are Eligible If
- You are 18 years old or older
- You are physically located in New York at the time of the visit
- You have symptoms consistent with conjunctivitis such as eye redness, discharge, itching, or tearing
- You do not have significant vision changes or vision loss
- You do not have severe eye pain (mild irritation or gritty sensation is common with conjunctivitis)
- You do not have photophobia or severe light sensitivity
- You do not have symptoms suggesting corneal ulcer or herpes eye disease
- Insurance is not required. A self pay option is available.
✗ You Are Not Eligible If
- You are under 18 years old
- You have significant vision changes or vision loss
- You have severe eye pain that is worsening
- You have copious thick purulent discharge suggesting gonococcal conjunctivitis
- You have photophobia or severe light sensitivity
- You have periorbital swelling with fever
- You are a contact lens wearer with suspected corneal ulcer (severe pain, vision change, white spot on cornea)
- You have symptoms suggesting herpes simplex or herpes zoster eye disease
If you have red-flag symptoms suggesting corneal involvement, vision-threatening infection, or herpes eye disease, seek ophthalmology or emergency care immediately. TeleDirectMD is not an emergency service.
How Online Pink Eye Treatment Works in New York
Book your video visit
Insurance is not required. No referral needed. Many visits are available same day, depending on scheduling. Before your visit, note when symptoms started, which eye is affected (or both), the type of discharge (watery, mucus, or thick pus), whether you wear contact lenses, and any recent exposure to someone with pink eye or upper respiratory infection.
See a New York licensed MD by video
We review your symptom history, discharge characteristics, and risk factors. The MD uses clinical history to distinguish likely bacterial, viral, or allergic conjunctivitis. We screen for red flags including vision changes, severe pain, and photophobia. Note that a slit-lamp examination cannot be performed by video, so cases with suspected corneal involvement are referred to ophthalmology.
Get a treatment plan and, if appropriate, a prescription
If medication is clinically appropriate, we send an e-prescription to common New York pharmacies such as CVS Pharmacy, Walgreens, Duane Reade, Wegmans Pharmacy, Walmart Pharmacy. Bacterial conjunctivitis may be treated with topical antibiotic drops or ointment. Viral and allergic cases receive evidence-based supportive care recommendations. You receive clear follow-up steps regardless of treatment choice, including when to seek ophthalmology care if symptoms worsen.
New York Telehealth Regulations for Online Pink Eye Care
New York defines telehealth in Public Health Law Article 29-G (Section 2999-cc) as the use of electronic information and communication technologies to deliver health care services to a patient at a distance. A New York-licensed physician may evaluate and treat a patient located in New York by real-time video under the same standard of care that applies in person, and every prescription written for a patient in New York is transmitted electronically to the pharmacy, as New York Public Health Law Section 281 requires.
Location matters: you must be physically in New York during the visit. Insurance is not required. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe controlled substances.
TeleDirectMD vs Other Care Options for Pink Eye in New York
Here is how TeleDirectMD compares to common settings for adult pink eye care in New York:
| Care option | Typical cost | Wait time | Provider type | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TeleDirectMD | Flat $79 self-pay option | Same day, often within hours | Board-certified MD only (no mid-levels) | Uncomplicated conjunctivitis without vision changes, with red-flag screening and prescriptions when appropriate |
| Urgent Care | $150 to $300+ (before insurance) | 1 to 3 hours typical | MD, DO, PA, or NP | Moderate symptoms with uncertain diagnosis, or when in-person examination of the eye is needed |
| Emergency Room | $500 to $3,000+ (before insurance) | 2 to 6 hours typical | Emergency medicine MD or DO | Significant vision changes, severe eye pain, copious purulent discharge, periorbital cellulitis, or suspected corneal ulcer or perforation |
| Primary Care | $100 to $250+ (varies) | 3 to 14 days typical | Family medicine or internal medicine MD or DO | Recurrent conjunctivitis, chronic eye irritation, allergy management, and routine eye health evaluation |
| Ophthalmology | $150 to $400+ (varies) | Days to weeks (varies) | Ophthalmologist MD or DO | Vision changes, suspected corneal ulcer or keratitis, herpes eye disease, chronic or recurrent conjunctivitis not responding to treatment, and slit-lamp examination |
Bottom line: TeleDirectMD is a strong fit for uncomplicated conjunctivitis without vision changes, with careful red-flag screening and direct MD evaluation to determine whether treatment, supportive care, or ophthalmology referral is appropriate.
Should I Use TeleDirectMD for Pink Eye in New York? Decision Guide
Do you have any emergency or red-flag symptoms?
- Significant vision changes or vision loss
- Severe eye pain (not just mild irritation or grittiness)
- Copious thick purulent discharge suggesting gonococcal infection
- Photophobia or severe light sensitivity
- Periorbital swelling with fever
- Suspected herpes simplex or zoster eye disease
If yes, see ophthalmology or go to the ER now
If no, continue to Step 2
Are you 18+ and currently in New York?
If yes, continue to Step 3
If no, use in-person care as appropriate
Do your symptoms fit uncomplicated conjunctivitis?
- Eye redness with discharge (watery, mucus, or mild crusting)
- Itching, tearing, or gritty sensation
- No significant vision changes
- No severe eye pain or photophobia
- No white spot visible on the cornea
If yes, continue to Step 4
If no or symptoms are severe, seek ophthalmology or ER evaluation
You are likely appropriate for a TeleDirectMD video visit
TeleDirectMD can evaluate your conjunctivitis symptoms, determine the likely type (bacterial, viral, or allergic) based on clinical history, and prescribe topical antibiotic treatment or recommend appropriate supportive care. If your symptoms suggest a more serious eye condition or do not improve with treatment, we will direct you to ophthalmology.
What Does Pink Eye Treatment Cost in New York?
Transparent options. Insurance is not required.
TeleDirectMD Video Visit
$79
$79 flat visit · no insurance required · generic antibiotic eye drops often $10–$25
- MD evaluation and red-flag screening
- Assessment of bacterial vs viral vs allergic conjunctivitis
- Contact lens risk assessment and guidance
- Prescription sent if clinically appropriate
- Clear follow-up steps and ophthalmology referral when needed
Typical Cost Comparison
Common ranges people see before insurance. Actual costs vary.
Total cost is transparent: the $79 visit plus generic antibiotic eye drops (typically $10–$25 with a pharmacy coupon) means most patients pay about $89–$104 all-in — no membership, and many cases actually resolve with supportive care alone.
No hidden fees. If medication is not clinically appropriate, you still receive a complete evaluation, guidance, and clear instructions on what level of care you need next.
What Is Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)?
Conjunctivitis, commonly called pink eye, is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin transparent membrane that lines the inner eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. It is one of the most common eye conditions seen in outpatient medicine and has three main forms: bacterial, viral, and allergic.
Bacterial conjunctivitis typically presents with mucopurulent discharge that causes the eyelids to stick together, especially upon waking. According to the JAMA systematic review, the majority of cases are self-limiting within one to two weeks, but topical antibiotics can shorten the duration and reduce transmission. Viral conjunctivitis, most commonly caused by adenovirus, presents with watery discharge and is often associated with a recent cold or exposure to someone with pink eye. Allergic conjunctivitis causes bilateral itching, tearing, and swelling and responds to antihistamines and allergen avoidance.
TeleDirectMD focuses on uncomplicated conjunctivitis appropriate for telehealth, with careful screening to direct cases with vision changes, severe pain, suspected corneal involvement, or gonococcal or chlamydial infection to ophthalmology or emergency care.
Causes and Risk Factors
Understanding the type and cause of conjunctivitis helps guide appropriate treatment. Bacterial, viral, and allergic conjunctivitis have different presentations, risk factors, and management approaches.
- Bacterial infection: common pathogens include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae, producing mucopurulent discharge that crusts the eyelids
- Viral infection: adenovirus is the most common cause, often associated with upper respiratory infection or exposure to an infected person, producing watery discharge and conjunctival follicles
- Allergic triggers: pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens cause bilateral itching, tearing, and conjunctival swelling affecting up to 40 percent of the population
- Contact lens wear: increases risk for bacterial conjunctivitis and potentially serious corneal infections, especially with poor lens hygiene, overnight wear, or swimming with lenses
- Close contact and shared items: viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious through direct contact, shared towels, or contaminated surfaces
- Gonococcal or chlamydial exposure: sexually transmitted organisms can cause hyperacute or chronic conjunctivitis requiring systemic antibiotics and are not appropriate for telehealth management
Not every red eye is conjunctivitis. Other causes of red eye include corneal abrasion, uveitis, acute glaucoma, and foreign body, which is why red-flag screening and appropriate referral are essential parts of the TeleDirectMD evaluation.
Symptoms and Red Flags for Pink Eye in New York
Use this table to understand which symptoms fit uncomplicated conjunctivitis and which patterns suggest a need for urgent ophthalmology or emergency evaluation.
| Symptom or situation | What it suggests | Telehealth appropriate? | Red flag requiring urgent in-person care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eye redness with watery discharge, recent cold or sick contact | Viral conjunctivitis likely | Often yes | If accompanied by vision changes or severe pain |
| Eye redness with mucopurulent discharge, eyelid crusting | Bacterial conjunctivitis possible | Often yes | If copious purulent discharge suggesting gonococcal infection |
| Bilateral eye itching, tearing, and swelling with known allergen exposure | Allergic conjunctivitis likely | Often yes | If vision changes or severe unilateral symptoms |
| Mild gritty or irritated sensation without severe pain | Typical of uncomplicated conjunctivitis | Often yes | If worsening to severe pain or photophobia |
| Contact lens wearer with redness and discharge | Higher risk for bacterial keratitis | Sometimes | If severe pain, vision change, or white spot on cornea |
| Significant vision changes or vision loss | Possible corneal involvement, uveitis, or other serious cause | No | Ophthalmology or emergency evaluation now |
| Severe eye pain with photophobia | Possible keratitis, uveitis, or acute glaucoma | No | Ophthalmology or emergency evaluation now |
| Periorbital swelling with fever | Possible orbital cellulitis | No | Emergency evaluation now |
Differential Diagnosis: Pink Eye vs Other Eye Conditions
Several conditions can cause eye redness that mimics conjunctivitis. TeleDirectMD evaluates symptom patterns to distinguish uncomplicated conjunctivitis from conditions requiring ophthalmology or emergency evaluation.
Sometimes Appropriate for Telehealth
- Bacterial conjunctivitis with mucopurulent discharge and no red flags
- Viral conjunctivitis with watery discharge and recent URI
- Allergic conjunctivitis with bilateral itching and known allergen exposure
- Subconjunctival hemorrhage without trauma or recurrence
- Mild blepharitis with eyelid margin irritation
Often Requires In-Person Evaluation
- Keratitis: corneal infection or inflammation with pain, photophobia, and vision changes
- Corneal ulcer: white opacity on cornea, especially in contact lens wearers
- Uveitis: deep aching pain, photophobia, and visual changes
- Acute angle-closure glaucoma: severe pain, vision loss, halos, nausea
- Gonococcal or chlamydial conjunctivitis: requires systemic antibiotics and ophthalmology evaluation
Bacterial vs Viral Conjunctivitis
Bacterial conjunctivitis typically produces mucopurulent (yellow-green) discharge with eyelid crusting, often starts in one eye and may spread. Viral conjunctivitis produces watery discharge, is often bilateral, and frequently accompanies a cold or upper respiratory infection. Both are contagious, but treatment differs: bacterial may benefit from topical antibiotics, while viral is managed with supportive care only.
Conjunctivitis vs Keratitis or Uveitis
Uncomplicated conjunctivitis causes redness and discharge but typically does not affect vision significantly or cause severe pain. Keratitis and uveitis cause deeper pain, photophobia, and vision changes. Contact lens wearers with a painful red eye should be evaluated urgently for corneal ulcer. Any red eye with significant vision change warrants ophthalmology evaluation, not telehealth.
If your symptoms do not match uncomplicated conjunctivitis or any red flags are present, TeleDirectMD will direct you to ophthalmology or the ER.
When Is a Video Visit Appropriate?
When a Video Visit Is Appropriate
- Typical conjunctivitis symptoms: eye redness, discharge, itching, or tearing
- No significant vision changes or vision loss
- No severe eye pain or photophobia
- No suspected corneal ulcer or white spot on cornea
- No copious purulent discharge suggesting gonococcal infection
- Located in New York at time of visit
Red Flags Requiring Ophthalmology or ER Care
- Significant vision changes or vision loss
- Severe eye pain that is worsening (not just mild irritation)
- Copious purulent discharge suggesting gonococcal conjunctivitis
- Photophobia or severe light sensitivity
- Contact lens wearer with suspected corneal ulcer
- Periorbital swelling with fever suggesting orbital cellulitis
If any red-flag symptoms are present, seek ophthalmology or emergency care immediately. TeleDirectMD is not an emergency service.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type of conjunctivitis. The JAMA systematic review confirms that most bacterial conjunctivitis is self-limiting, but topical antibiotics shorten the course. Viral conjunctivitis has no specific treatment. Allergic conjunctivitis responds to antihistamines and allergen avoidance. The AAO emphasizes that steroid eye drops should not be prescribed without a slit-lamp examination due to the risk of corneal melting with herpes keratitis.
Bacterial conjunctivitis
Topical broad-spectrum antibiotics such as erythromycin ointment, polymyxin B/trimethoprim drops, or fluoroquinolone drops (ofloxacin) may be prescribed when bacterial conjunctivitis is clinically suspected. Treatment shortens the duration from about one to two weeks to a few days and reduces contagiousness. Patients should practice strict hand hygiene and avoid sharing towels or pillows.
Viral conjunctivitis
There is no specific antiviral treatment for common viral conjunctivitis caused by adenovirus. Supportive care includes cool compresses, artificial tears for comfort, and strict hygiene to prevent spread. Symptoms typically resolve within two to three weeks. Antivirals are reserved only for herpes simplex conjunctivitis, which requires ophthalmology management.
Allergic conjunctivitis
Allergen avoidance is the first step. Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops such as ketotifen provide relief for most mild cases. For more persistent symptoms, prescription combination antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer drops such as olopatadine may be recommended. Cool compresses and artificial tears provide additional comfort. Oral antihistamines may help when nasal allergy symptoms are also present.
When telehealth care is not enough
If symptoms do not improve within the expected timeframe, if vision changes develop at any point, or if the clinical picture suggests keratitis, corneal ulcer, uveitis, gonococcal or chlamydial conjunctivitis, or herpes eye disease, in-person ophthalmology evaluation with slit-lamp examination is needed. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe steroid eye drops due to the risk of worsening herpes keratitis without a proper slit-lamp exam.
What TeleDirectMD Does Not Manage
- Gonococcal conjunctivitis requiring systemic antibiotics
- Chlamydial conjunctivitis requiring systemic treatment
- Herpes simplex or herpes zoster keratitis
- Corneal ulcer or bacterial keratitis requiring slit-lamp examination
- Conditions requiring steroid eye drops without slit-lamp exam
Common Medication Options
These are common options for adult conjunctivitis. The actual medication, dose, and duration are determined by the MD after reviewing your symptoms, discharge type, risk factors, and red flags. Many cases of conjunctivitis resolve with supportive care alone.
| Medication | Typical dose | Duration | Key considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment 0.5% | Apply thin ribbon to affected eye(s) 2 to 4 times daily | 5 to 7 days | First-line topical antibiotic for bacterial conjunctivitis. Well-tolerated. May cause temporary blurring after application. |
| Polymyxin B/trimethoprim ophthalmic drops | 1 to 2 drops in affected eye(s) every 3 to 6 hours | 7 to 10 days | Broad-spectrum topical antibiotic drops for bacterial conjunctivitis. Good alternative to ointment when drops are preferred. |
| Ofloxacin ophthalmic drops 0.3% | 1 to 2 drops in affected eye(s) 2 to 4 times daily | 7 days | Fluoroquinolone topical antibiotic. Used for bacterial conjunctivitis when broader coverage is needed. |
| Artificial tears (over-the-counter) | 1 to 2 drops as needed for comfort | As needed | Supportive care for all types of conjunctivitis. Lubricates the eye and flushes irritants. Preservative-free formulations preferred for frequent use. |
| Ketotifen ophthalmic drops (over-the-counter) | 1 drop in affected eye(s) twice daily | As needed during allergy season | Over-the-counter antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer eye drop for allergic conjunctivitis. Available without prescription. |
| Olopatadine ophthalmic drops | 1 drop in affected eye(s) once or twice daily | As needed during allergy season | Prescription combination antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer for allergic conjunctivitis. More potent than OTC options for persistent symptoms. |
| Cool compresses | Apply clean cool cloth to closed eyes for 5 to 10 minutes | As needed for comfort | Supportive care that provides relief for all types of conjunctivitis. Particularly soothing for viral and allergic forms. |
Important: Example regimens only. The actual medication, dosing, and duration are determined by the MD after reviewing your symptoms, risk factors, allergies, and red flags. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe steroid eye drops without a slit-lamp examination. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe controlled substances.
Home Care, Recovery Timeline, Prevention, and Follow-up
Recovery Timeline and What to Do Now
- Bacterial conjunctivitis typically improves within 2 to 5 days with topical antibiotics, or 1 to 2 weeks without treatment
- Viral conjunctivitis resolves on its own within 2 to 3 weeks with supportive care
- Allergic conjunctivitis improves rapidly with allergen avoidance and antihistamine drops
- Apply cool compresses several times daily for comfort
- Use artificial tears as needed to relieve dryness and irritation
What to Watch For Over the Next 24 to 72 Hours
- Any vision changes or blurring that was not present before
- Worsening eye pain or development of photophobia
- Increasing swelling around the eye, especially with fever
- Symptoms spreading to the other eye despite hygiene measures (common with viral)
- No improvement after 48 to 72 hours of topical antibiotic treatment for presumed bacterial conjunctivitis
Prevention and Follow-up
- Wash hands frequently and avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
- Do not share towels, pillowcases, eye drops, or makeup with others
- If you wear contact lenses, stop wearing them until symptoms fully resolve, discard disposable lenses, and clean your lens case thoroughly
- Replace eye makeup that may be contaminated
- If symptoms do not improve within the expected timeframe or worsen at any point, seek ophthalmology evaluation
- If any red-flag symptoms develop at any time, seek emergency care immediately
When Not to Use TeleDirectMD for Pink Eye in New York
TeleDirectMD is designed for uncomplicated conjunctivitis symptoms. We are direct about when telehealth is not appropriate.
You Should Not Use TeleDirectMD If
- You are under 18 years old
- You have significant vision changes or vision loss
- You have severe eye pain that is worsening
- You have copious purulent discharge suggesting gonococcal conjunctivitis
- You have photophobia or severe light sensitivity
- You have periorbital swelling with fever
- You are a contact lens wearer with suspected corneal ulcer
- You have symptoms suggesting herpes simplex or zoster eye disease
- You are not physically in New York at the time of visit
Alternative Care Options
- Emergency room: significant vision loss, periorbital cellulitis with fever, suspected corneal perforation, or chemical exposure to the eye
- Ophthalmology: vision changes, severe eye pain, photophobia, suspected keratitis or corneal ulcer, herpes eye disease, or conjunctivitis not responding to treatment
- Urgent care: moderate symptoms with uncertain diagnosis or when in-person eye examination is needed for reassurance
- Primary care: recurrent conjunctivitis, chronic eye irritation, allergy management, and routine eye health evaluation
Pink Eye in New York
Pink eye spreads easily in shared New York spaces such as offices, subway cars and dorms, and most cases are viral or allergic rather than bacterial. A video visit lets Dr. Bhavsar look at the eye on camera, ask about discharge, contact lenses and vision changes, and decide whether a prescription eye drop is appropriate. Eye pain, light sensitivity, vision loss or contact lens wear with a red eye need same-day in-person care. Flat $79 for adults physically in New York.
Practicing in New York
Parth Bhavsar, MD, board-certified in family medicine by the American Board of Family Medicine, holds New York medical license 345804. New York physicians are licensed and registered by the New York State Education Department's Office of the Professions under the State Board for Medicine, and professional conduct is overseen by the New York State Department of Health's Office of Professional Medical Conduct. New York patients can look up the license through the Office of the Professions online verification search. NPI: 1104323203.
TeleDirectMD sees adults located anywhere in New York State, about 20 million residents (U.S. Census Bureau, 2025 estimate) plus everyone visiting. That covers all five New York City boroughs (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island), Long Island's Nassau and Suffolk counties, Westchester, Rockland and the rest of the Hudson Valley, the Capital Region around Albany, Schenectady and Troy, Central New York around Syracuse and Utica, the Finger Lakes and Rochester, Western New York from Buffalo to Niagara Falls, the Southern Tier around Binghamton, and the North Country and Adirondacks. Rural upstate patients and Manhattan patients pay the same flat $79 and get the same physician.
New York's seasons shape what brings adults to a visit. Flu activity usually builds through December; the New York State Department of Health formally declared influenza prevalent on December 2, 2025, December 18, 2024 and December 6, 2023, and TeleDirectMD's FluHub tracks New York flu activity weekly. Tick-borne disease is concentrated outside New York City: the Department of Health's 2025 tick-borne disease report names the Capital District as the region with the highest incidence of Lyme disease, anaplasmosis and babesiosis for 2020 to 2024, with high counts on Long Island and in the Hudson Valley, and adult blacklegged ticks stay active into the fall. New York City's density and visitor volume mean respiratory and sexually transmitted infections spread quickly, which is why both the state and the city publish their own clinical guidance on doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis. This context is for awareness only and is not a substitute for an individual evaluation.
TeleDirectMD is self-pay only in New York: no commercial insurance, no Medicaid and no Medicare billing. Every New York visit is a flat $79, paid at booking, with no facility fee or follow-up bill for the visit. HSA and FSA cards are accepted. If you have insurance, you can still choose a TeleDirectMD visit at $79 and ask your plan about out-of-network reimbursement; TeleDirectMD does not file claims and cannot promise reimbursement. If you need coverage, NY State of Health lists marketplace plans and the Essential Plan, and uninsured New York City residents can ask NYC Health + Hospitals about NYC Care.
Pink Eye Treatment FAQs for New York
Can I get treatment for pink eye online in New York?
Yes, if you are an adult 18+ located in New York and your symptoms fit uncomplicated conjunctivitis without red flags such as vision changes, severe pain, or photophobia. TeleDirectMD can evaluate your symptoms by video, determine the likely type of conjunctivitis, and prescribe topical antibiotic treatment when clinically appropriate.
How much does online pink eye treatment cost in New York?
TeleDirectMD offers a transparent flat $79 self-pay option for an adult video visit in New York. Insurance is not required. Prescription costs at your pharmacy are separate and vary by medication and pharmacy.
How do I know if my pink eye is bacterial, viral, or allergic?
Bacterial conjunctivitis typically causes thick yellow-green discharge with eyelid crusting, often starting in one eye. Viral conjunctivitis produces watery discharge and is often associated with a cold. Allergic conjunctivitis causes itching in both eyes with tearing and swelling, usually with known allergen exposure. The TeleDirectMD MD evaluates your symptom history to determine the most likely type.
Do I need antibiotic eye drops for pink eye?
Not always. Viral conjunctivitis, the most common type in adults, does not respond to antibiotics and resolves on its own in 2 to 3 weeks. Allergic conjunctivitis responds to antihistamine drops, not antibiotics. Topical antibiotics are appropriate for bacterial conjunctivitis, which the MD can assess based on your symptoms and discharge characteristics.
Can I wear contact lenses with pink eye?
No. You should stop wearing contact lenses as soon as pink eye symptoms develop. Discard disposable lenses and their case. Do not resume wearing lenses until symptoms have fully resolved and any prescribed treatment is complete. Contact lens wearers with red eye and pain should be evaluated urgently for possible corneal infection.
How long is pink eye contagious?
Bacterial conjunctivitis is considered contagious until discharge has stopped or 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment. Viral conjunctivitis can be contagious for up to two weeks from when symptoms begin. Practice strict hand hygiene, avoid touching your eyes, and do not share towels or pillows to prevent spread.
When should I see an ophthalmologist instead of using telehealth?
Seek ophthalmology evaluation for any vision changes, severe eye pain, photophobia, suspected corneal ulcer (especially in contact lens wearers), symptoms suggesting herpes eye disease, or conjunctivitis not improving after appropriate treatment. These conditions require a slit-lamp examination that cannot be performed by video visit.
Does New York allow telemedicine for pink eye treatment?
Yes. New York allows licensed professionals to provide telemedicine within their scope when appropriate and according to accepted standards of care. You must be physically located in New York at the time of the visit.
What if my pink eye is not improving with treatment?
If bacterial conjunctivitis is not improving after 48 to 72 hours of topical antibiotic treatment, the diagnosis may need to be reconsidered. You may have viral conjunctivitis (which resolves on its own), an antibiotic-resistant organism, or a different condition entirely. TeleDirectMD can reassess or refer you to ophthalmology for in-person evaluation with a slit-lamp exam.
Can telehealth prescribe steroid eye drops for pink eye?
No. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe steroid eye drops because their use requires a slit-lamp examination to rule out herpes keratitis. Using steroid drops on an eye with undiagnosed herpes infection can cause corneal melting and permanent vision damage. If you believe you need steroid drops, in-person ophthalmology evaluation is required.
How much does online pink eye treatment cost without insurance in New York?
The visit is $79 flat, no insurance required, and generic antibiotic eye drops, if bacterial conjunctivitis is likely, typically add $10 to $25 at the pharmacy — most patients pay under $105 total.
Can I wear contact lenses while I have pink eye in New York?
No — contact lenses should be avoided until your pink eye has fully resolved and you've discarded any lenses worn during the infection, since they can worsen or prolong the condition. The MD can advise on timing for safely resuming contact lens wear.
Can I see a doctor online in New York without insurance?
Yes. TeleDirectMD offers same-day video visits for adults physically located in New York for a flat $79, paid at booking, with no insurance needed. Every visit is with Parth Bhavsar, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician licensed in New York (license 345804). HSA and FSA cards are accepted. The visit is not for emergencies: for chest pain, trouble breathing or signs of a stroke, call 911.
I'm visiting New York. Can I use TeleDirectMD?
Yes, if you are physically in New York during the visit. New York licensing follows where the patient is, not where they live, so a visitor in a New York City hotel can be seen like any New Yorker. Bring a photo ID and a card for the $79 fee. If a prescription is appropriate, it is sent electronically to a New York pharmacy near where you are staying; a prescription from your home country cannot be filled at a New York pharmacy.
Is Dr. Bhavsar licensed in New York, and how can I check?
Yes. Parth Bhavsar, MD holds New York medical license 345804. New York physician licenses are issued and registered by the New York State Education Department's Office of the Professions, and anyone can look a license up through its online verification search. His National Provider Identifier is 1104323203.
Does TeleDirectMD take insurance in New York?
No. TeleDirectMD is self-pay only in New York: a flat $79 per visit, with no insurance, Medicaid or Medicare billing. If you need coverage, NY State of Health, the state's official marketplace, lists plans including the Essential Plan, and uninsured New York City residents can ask NYC Health + Hospitals about NYC Care.
Which New York pharmacies can receive my prescription?
Any New York pharmacy that accepts electronic prescriptions, which New York law requires for prescriptions (Public Health Law Section 281). That includes CVS, Walgreens and Duane Reade in New York City, Wegmans and Kinney Drugs upstate, Walmart pharmacies and independent pharmacies. You choose the pharmacy when you book.
What can't a video visit handle in New York?
Emergencies (call 911 for chest pain, trouble breathing, stroke signs, heavy bleeding or sudden confusion), controlled substances, which TeleDirectMD does not prescribe, care for anyone under 18, and problems that need a hands-on exam, a same-day test or imaging. If a video visit is not the right fit, Dr. Bhavsar will say so and point you to in-person care.
Need help today?
Insurance is not required. Adult-only video visits. MD-only care. Safety-first triage, evidence-based treatment decisions, and prescriptions only when appropriate.
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References
- Azari AA, Barney NP. Conjunctivitis: A Systematic Review of Diagnosis and Treatment. JAMA. 2013;310(16):1721-1730.
- Varu DM, Rhee MK, Akpek EK, et al. Conjunctivitis Preferred Practice Pattern (American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2018). Ophthalmology. 2019;126(1):P94-P169.
- CDC: Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) - Treatment
- Mayo Clinic: Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) - Diagnosis and Treatment
TeleDirectMD Telehealth Disclaimer
TeleDirectMD provides MD-only virtual urgent care for adults (18+) in New York using secure video visits to evaluate conjunctivitis symptoms, provide evidence-based guidance, and prescribe treatment when clinically appropriate. Insurance is not required. You must be physically located in New York at the time of your video visit. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe controlled substances.
TeleDirectMD is not an emergency service and is not a replacement for ophthalmology evaluation when vision changes, severe pain, photophobia, or suspected corneal involvement are present. A slit-lamp examination cannot be performed by video visit, so cases with suspected keratitis, corneal ulcer, herpes eye disease, or gonococcal or chlamydial conjunctivitis require in-person evaluation. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe steroid eye drops without a slit-lamp examination.
Online pink eye treatment in New York. Conjunctivitis treatment online. Pink eye care by video visit.
Get Pink Eye Treatment in Other States
TeleDirectMD treats pink eye via telehealth in 40+ states + DC. If you are traveling, relocating, or helping a family member in another state, select below to find this treatment near them.
What does an online doctor visit in New York cost?
TeleDirectMD's $79 flat rate is about one-quarter to one-half the cost of a cash-pay urgent care visit and a small fraction of an uninsured ER visit. See verified 2026 cash-pay prices across every care setting.
Compare TeleDirectMD to other telehealth services
How much does an online doctor visit cost? · TeleDirectMD vs. Amwell · All platform comparisons
Common Symptoms Patients Ask About
If you reached this page from a symptom search rather than a diagnosis, these symptom guides cover the common patient questions that route to pink eye:
Prescribing limits: before you book
Can TeleDirectMD prescribe IV medications or IM shots?
TeleDirectMD does not prescribe intravenous (IV) medications or intramuscular (IM) medications, except EpiPen (epinephrine auto-injector) refills when clinically appropriate. This includes IV fluids and infusions, and IM antibiotic or steroid shots. We cannot issue these prescriptions for administration at another clinic or by another provider.
How long can a TeleDirectMD prescription last, including refills?
Every TeleDirectMD prescription, including all refills, covers no more than a 90-day supply. To continue a medication beyond 90 days, you need a new visit. There are no exceptions.