Virtual Medical Center
Extraordinary nursing care.
Every patient. Every time.
Our Virtual Medical Center provides access to care services 24/7, allowing members to book appointments, speak with advice nurses for symptom triage, and access virtual care in real time.
About the Virtual Medical Center
In October 2024, the Virtual Medical Center (VMC) brought together three innovative departments; the Appointment & Advice Care Center, Desktop Medicine, and a group of dedicated physicians who now care for patients through our virtual services. The VMC meets the evolving health care needs of our members any time, any place.
When KP members contact the VMC, they have instant access to a variety of services that make getting compassionate care more convenient than ever. Our new Virtual Care Program offers phone and video visits, an easy way to get answers and support for many common questions and concerns. For some conditions, members can use KP’s eVisits to Get Care Now, and there’s often an opportunity to speak directly with a physician during most office hours.
Services at the VMC include 24/7 advice from an RN, International Travel Medicine, perinatal support, including our “Beginning my pregnancy” program, appointment booking, secure messaging with their doctor, and wellness coaching. It’s a better idea for health care!
A message from our Directors of Nursing and Clinical Practice
Carolyn Drake, MSN, MHA, RN
Senior Director - RN, Sacramento Appointment and Advice Care Center & International Travel Medicine and AACC Director of Nursing and Clinical Practice
Holly Runyan, MHA/INF, BSN, RN, PHN
Senior Director - RN, Vallejo Appointment and Advice Care Center and RPSC and AACC Director of Nursing and Clinical Practice
It’s our privilege to honor the nearly 900 exceptionally skilled nurses that support members and patients through the Virtual Medical Center. Every RN delivers compassionate, high-quality care, 24/7/365 for patients across Northern California. The VMC nurses bring dedication, deep expertise, and professionalism to every patient interaction.
Our nurses practice compassionate care, and Caritas principles with a steadfast commitment to patient safety, and the highest standards of clinical excellence. They work at the top of their scope, bringing advanced professional skills to every encounter and ensuring that their practice reflects the most current, evidence-based approaches.
Their contributions extend far beyond 24/7 advice calls. They innovate, collaborate, and continually raise the bar for virtual care delivery. Their stories and accomplishments highlight the profound impact VMC nurses have on a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.
We are profoundly grateful and proud of our Virtual Medical Center nursing community. Thank you for your service, your compassionate care, every day, and the extraordinary difference you make in patient care at Kaiser Permanente.
