What is an online prescription?
It is a digital version of a paper prescription that has changed the way healthcare is accessed and managed. A digital prescription allows for the prescribing and dispensing of a medication without the need for paper.
An online prescription is known as an electronic prescription. It has offered an accessible solution to obtaining necessary prescription medications while giving people flexibility and control over their healthcare journey.
How to get one from your GP?
An online prescription is sent by your GP via an SMS or email containing a link with a QR code, known as a digital token. The token is taken to the pharmacy, where the pharmacist scans it to assess the suitability of the prescription before supplying the medicine. If a repeat prescription is remaining, a new token will be sent via SMS or email back to the patient.
The patient can also choose to keep their scripts at the local pharmacy, where reminders are sent before medications are due. Some pharmacies offer delivered to the door service, and others are happy to dispense and store so the patient can pick up at their convenience.
How to get one from a digital service?
A digital health service has medical professionals conducting consultations online, via phone, or video. In the telehealth appointment, the doctor reviews the patient’s medical history, medical condition, and need for treatment. The doctor provides approval for a medication that can be requested by the patient at any time.
The prescription service works a little differently in digital health. The patient is not provided with a token; rather, the prescription is stored on the online service, and a dispensing can be requested when in need.
Like in visiting pharmacies, each time the existing prescription is assessed by the pharmacist for its suitability against changing conditions. If the pharmacist thinks the patient is still eligible, the request will be forwarded to the partner pharmacy. They will then deliver to the patient via postal services such as Australia Post.
Advantages of obtaining scripts online
Accessibility
Online Prescriptions offer patients the chance to consult with online doctors from the comfort of their homes. It allows patients to feel empowered to manage medications on their own. This option is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues, busy schedules, or those living in remote areas.
Paper prescriptions generally tend to get misplaced easily, and token e-scripts can be of hassle when trying to access multiple pharmacies. A digital health service that stores the scripts online allows for a smooth process to manage multiple prescriptions.
Efficiency
The traditional process of visiting a doctor’s office and then a pharmacy adds travel and waiting time, which can be time-consuming. Physical pharmacies face stock issues, and that may result in multiple visits to the pharmacy before getting the prescription. Obtaining medications online can be of benefit as it is time-friendly to order the medication already approved and know the delivery time frame of receiving it all from the phone.
Privacy and confidentiality
Often, there is a layer of stigma around certain conditions, which results in people not seeking the medical attention they need. A digital health service that provides prescriptions online allows the patient to discreetly discuss their health concerns. They can have their concerns addressed and receive the medication without being face to face with multiple health professionals.
Disadvantages of prescriptions online
Though the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, online scripts are not free from limitations. There is a lack of immediate medical intervention present. A lack of immediate pathology results, a lack of physical examinations taking place, and a lack of imaging, such as X-rays and scans.
Additionally, receiving prescriptions online means the patients can only access the medication via a postal delivery service. On most occasions, people do pre-plan their medications; however, emergencies and forgetfulness can take place. In such a case, the patient will not have the choice of obtaining that medication immediately from any open pharmacy in their area.
Consulting a GP
While online prescriptions provide convenience, they should not replace regular check-ups and follow-up care. Patients are encouraged to maintain a relationship with a primary care physician for comprehensive healthcare management.
There are certain instances where an online service may not be able to facilitate the medication requests. Such instances could be the request for chronic pain medication. These are controlled medications in Australia and cannot be provided via a postal service. Individuals should consult their regular GP for these or other difficult requests.
