How can I get a prescription without visiting a doctor?
Having realized that you can’t get a prescription without the help of a doctor, the question now becomes "how can I get a prescription without visiting a doctor?" The simple answer is telemedicine. Telemedicine solves the barrier of physically seeing a doctor before getting your prescription. It allows you to communicate online with your doctor via a platform like a video chat app or other secure platform and have your prescription sent to you.
What is telemedicine?
Telemedicine is part of the emerging field of telehealth. Telehealth focuses on online doctor consultations via video chat on a phone or computer. While telemedicine is only limited to online consultation, telehealth is broader and includes other activities like administrative and management activities. Telemedicine relieves the stress of traveling and the long wait at a doctor's office. You may want to check out if telehealth is for you.
How can I obtain a prescription via telemedicine?
During a telemedicine visit, you will communicate with your doctor online and get a diagnosis. Your doctor will then send your prescription to the pharmacy of your choice if your condition necessitates medication. After that, you can pick up your prescription at the pharmacy whenever it's convenient for you.
What should I keep in mind when using telemedicine to get a prescription?
Although many people find telemedicine to be an ideal alternative, there are a few things to consider before using these services.
* Telemedicine cannot be used to prescribe all medications. The Ryan Haight Act, a federal law that controls the prescription of controlled medications, forbids prescribing a controlled substance online. It requires doctors to treat the patient in person. The exception to this law is if the patient falls into one of seven exempted categories. As a result, it is challenging to get prescriptions for controlled medications via telemedicine.
- States have different telehealth laws. While some states have lenient laws that allow you to easily get a prescription through telemedicine, others require at least one in-person visit to establish a patient-provider connection. You may have to check out the laws that guide your state using the Center for Connected Health Policy's guide or ask about your preferred telehealth platform.
* Consider the state where the doctor practices. You must consult a doctor that is licensed to practice in your state. The good news is that the telehealth platform will require you to enter your state before matching you with a physician licensed to work there.
How much does a telemedicine visit cost?
The cost of a telemedicine visit varies depending on the platform. It may cost the same as an in-person visit or even cheaper. You may be able to use your health insurance to pay on some platforms. You should be able to determine cost before your visit. Reach out to your provider or the platform's customer service if you're unsure about cost.
What are the benefits of telemedicine?
Telemedicine offers patients more convenient and affordable alternatives to treat routine ailments, including allergies, bacterial infections, and sinus infections. It also makes it easier to follow up with patients with chronic conditions, such as autoimmune disorders or diabetes.
Unfortunately, many uninsured or underinsured patients still struggle to afford their medications. At RxLess, we believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to quality healthcare. An RxLess discount cardcomes in handy to get your medications as much as 88% cheaper than the average retail price.
