Are you thinking about switching to online prescriptions?
Knowing that your prescriptions are on their way offers profound peace of mind. You can also automate your order cycle to prevent disruptions to your medication schedule.
But remember, when it comes to your health, safety is everything.
Approach online prescriptions like you would with any other medical appointment. You wouldn’t book an appointment with a doctor who doesn’t possess a medical license. Similarly, you also have to practice good internet security practices, like avoiding unsafe websites.
Add the following steps to your online prescription safety checklist.
How to Get an Online Prescription
Your first step is to always consult a licensed physician. If you don’t yet have a diagnosis, you’ll need one to get your first prescription.
For example, if you want to get on a glucose control medication like Victoza, a licensed physician will need to review your medical history to ensure you’re a good candidate for a GLP-1. Since this medication regulates appetite and slows gastric emptying, a physician will need to check your BMI and other weight-related comorbidities.
Since GLP-1 medications require a long-term commitment, online ordering can ensure consistent delivery. Plus, ordering through a weight management program can offer additional resources, like professional dietitian guidance, to supplement your treatment. These platforms may also work with commercial insurance to help you cover your prescription costs.
Of course, always read warning labels thoroughly and only use prescriptions as directed. For instance, only buy GLP-1s that are FDA-approved for type-2 diabetes. Purchasing alternatives without FDA oversight is a critical health safety risk.
Verify the Pharmacy
Always order through a legitimate pharmacy verified by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP).
Online pharmacies that use the .pharmacy domain extension are associated with healthcare organizations and meet the NABP’s rigorous safety and licensing standards. Other platforms should clearly communicate that they’re verified by the NABP. Health program platforms will require you to take a health assessment first before connecting you with a physician and a verified pharmacy.
Red Flags
A telltale red flag is a pharmacy that doesn’t require valid prescriptions from licensed healthcare providers. Your doctor should also be able to electronically submit your prescription to the platform, similar to “calling in” a prescription at a local pharmacy.
Prices should also reflect the market rate. If a price looks too good to be true, you’re probably right. Avoid pharmacies that lack a physical address, as well.
Don’t order through pharmacies that send spam emails, including emails advertising cheap, unregulated drugs.
How to Use Telemedicine Safely
You may use telehealth services through your regular healthcare provider or another verified provider. Before using a telehealth service, verify the physician’s credentials if you’ve never booked a virtual appointment with them before.
Check if a telehealth physician is licensed to practice medicine in your specific state. You can check state licensing board databases or online platforms that conduct thorough background checks on physicians.
Check for any telehealth regulations in your state of residence. Your state may have strict rules about working with physicians who only reside in your state.
Some states require an in-person visit before booking subsequent virtual appointments. Doctors themselves may require an initial office visit first. Most doctors require in-person visits to make a diagnosis.
In some cases, you may be able to get a virtual prescription from a verified physician without an in-person visit. The DEA allows some flexibility on this for certain medications. However, rules are subject to change, and you still have to check with your state’s guidelines.
When to Use Telemedicine Services
Telehealth services are best for non-emergency care. If you think you’re having a health emergency, visit an ER, urgent care clinic, or call 911.
If you have an existing relationship with a physician for a chronic condition like high blood pressure, you may be able to book virtual appointments for chronic pain or disease management purposes.
The following conditions may qualify for exclusive telehealth-based treatment:
● Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
● Acne and skin rashes
● Respiratory infections
● Conjunctivitis (also known as “pink eye”)
A licensed healthcare provider may be able to prescribe medication for these conditions without an in-person visit.
You may be able to receive telehealth-based treatment for mental health conditions, like depression and anxiety, without an office visit, depending on your doctor and your state’s guidelines. Ask if your doctor can submit anxiety prescriptions through a verified online pharmacy.
Learn More About Online Prescriptions
One of the most valuable things you can do for your health is to seek verified expert advice.
Go through the proper channels to receive a diagnosis from a licensed healthcare provider. Only order prescriptions through verified pharmacies and avoid all red flags.
Leading with safety is always your best course of action.
