Be An Informed Telemedicine Patient
Even though its doctors who are prescribing the antibiotics, patients can be a big part of the problem.
Patients often view a telemedicine encounter as more of a consumer transaction than a healthcare visit, says Martinez. Theres an expectation that they get to call a doctor, pay for the visit, and get a prescription.
Coupled with that expectation is the fact that many patients still hold a firm belief that taking an antibiotic is the fastest way to rebound from most respiratory infections. Theres a tremendous placebo effect of antibiotics, says Topol.
How Do Antibiotics Work
Our body’s defence system usually copes with harmful bacteria bydestroying them, and therefore protects us from getting infections. However,sometimes the infection is too great and antibiotics are needed.
Antibiotics work by either killing the bacteria or by preventing the bacteria fromgrowing and reproducing . After stopping growth and reproduction, the body’s immune systemthen destroys and removes the bacteria.
Can I Order A Prescription Online
While you cannot simply order a prescription online, you can meet with an online doctor to get medication prescribed online. In order to receive prescription medication you must first consult with a medical doctor. This can be done online via phone or video chat. If the doctor finds you may benefit from a prescription they will electronically send one to the pharmacy of your choice. They can also provide you with a doctors note, if necessary.
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Our Board Certified Online Doctors
At PlushCare, our board certified physicians have trained at one of the top 50 medical institutions in the country, including Stanford, Harvard, UCLA, Yale, UCSF, and Baylor, ensuring that you get quality care from knowledgeable medical professionals. Our online doctors have an average of 15 years experience and a 97% satisfaction rating, they really set us apart!
Laws Governing Telehealth Vary By State
You may not be able to obtain a prescription via telemedicine in every state. Some have strict guidelines for establishing a patient-provider relationship that may require at least one in-person visit. The Center for Connected Health Policy has an online guide where you can check your own states laws. Or, you can ask your chosen telehealth platform.
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Explaining Antibiotics And Online Doctors
There are various factors to consider when you’d like to receive medical care via telehealth . These will primarily vary depending on your condition and how it manifests.
- How it works online: Appointments online follow a different sort of process. You will be seen by a medical professional, and they will either offer treatment or refer you to a relevant office appointment.
- Getting antibiotics: You will be prescribed antibiotics when medically relevant and when your online doctor is sure about your condition without the need for further check-ups.
- What antibiotics are for: You should request antibiotic treatment if you have a bacterial infection, and the doctor will determine the best course.
- The benefits: Telehealth can offer various advantages by saving you a trip to the doctor’s office or by getting you an initial consultation that then leads to a follow-up appointment in person. There are some things it can’t replace, but it offers excellent ease of access.
- State regulations: Telehealth will vary according to the state you live in and may change during times of health crises. Being aware of telehealth regulations in your state will be beneficial before you use it to know what to seek from it.
How Much Will My Online Prescription Cost
Schedule an appointment at no cost to you, with $0 copay, for select health plans. You will get your online doctor prescription at no additional cost. Set up your account on the Babylon app to confirm your access to services.
The cost to fill your prescription may vary by pharmacy and by insurance plan. Any prescription delivery services available may come at an additional cost. Contact your insurance provider or pharmacy for additional information.
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How Much Does A Virtual Doctor Visit Cost In New York
The cost of a virtual doctor visit in New York will vary and be based on if you have insurance coverage, as well as which telehealth platform is being used. PlushCare treats patients with and without insurance. For patients with insurance, the cost to meet with an online doctor in New York at PlushCare is less than $25 on average . For New York patients without insurance, the cost of an online doctors appointment at PlushCare is $119.
The Problems With Traditional Written Medical Prescriptions
Although some common complaints can be treated by off-the-shelf medication, theyre rarely as effective as prescribed drugs. And, with a medical prescription, you are assured that youre always receiving the most appropriate treatment.
The major problems with obtaining a prescription from a traditional doctor are the delay, uncertainty and inconvenience associated with the whole process. You have to:
- book an appointment, which may not be at a time to suit you and may not be soon
- travel to the surgery, which may not be close and can involve a lot of wasted time to get there
- sit in the waiting room with other ill people, risking possible infection from them
- undergo a short consultation
- collect your medication from a pharmacy.
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What Is An Online Doctor
An online doctor is a doctor who works online . They have the same training and credentials as a doctor youd see in a medical clinic, but their practice consists of seeing patients over the internet.
Online doctors operate over video chat, phone calls, texts, or some combination of these three.
One of the major benefits of making an online doctors appointment is that you dont have to go anywhere. You can see a doctor from your home, office, or anywhere you need care.
Another perk? You can access a professional whenever your schedule allows. For instance, here at K Health, we have licensed doctors available 24/7, meaning you can reach out on a Sunday at 10 p.m. when youre lying in bed feeling anxious or sick. Thats a lot more convenient than having to reach a traditional clinic during business hours.
Online medical care is also discreet, which is great for patients who are nervous to seek in-person care because of a stigma or judgment from others.
You should always feel like you can get your questions answered and that theres no such thing as a stupid question when you see any healthcare professional. Having performance anxiety in the bedroom? Feeling a burning sensation when you pee? Online doctors can help.
Does Plushcare Prescribe Xanax
No. PlushCare and all other digital healthcare providers are unable to prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax.
It is illegal for anyone to prescribe, sell or buy Xanax online.
While we are unable to prescribe Xanax, there are many other anti-anxiety medications our doctors can prescribe. In fact, anxiety treatment is one of the main reasons people use our services here at PlushCare.
Book an appointment to talk to a doctor about why youre interested in anti-anxiety medication and if they find you may benefit from a prescription, they will electronically send one to your local pharmacy, where you can pick up your medication.
Read: Can You Buy Anxiety Medication Online?
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What If I Need A Lab Test
I you need to have lab work done before receiving a diagnosis and treatment plan an online doctor can recommend the appropriate lab tests and write you a lab order. PlushCare partners with top labs throughout the country and our doctors will refer you to the closest lab to you after providing you with your lab order. When your results come back from the lab the doctor will reach out for a follow up appointment. Common lab orders our online doctors write are for STD testing and thyroid testing, among others. Right now PlushCare is offering select labs for just $5.
The Straightforward Way To Get An Online Prescription
If, after your consultation, the GP decides it is clinically appropriate to produce a prescription, then you have a few options.
We can send your prescription electronically to a local pharmacy, enabling you to collect it immediately. This pharmacy needs to be one of our nominated pharmacies, and a list is available in our Pharmacy Directory.
Alternatively, we can post the prescription to your home so that you can collect.
We also work with ChemistWarehouse.com.au so you can get the medication you need delivered to your door. If you would like to use this service, let your Instant Consult Doctor know and we can get the process started.
Unfortunately, there are several medications and types of medication that we cannot prescribe via video consultation, including:
- Panadeine Forte
- Schedule 8 medications
- Any medication that needs close monitoring by a doctor
If you are unsure, your Instant Consult doctor can advise you on the best course of action. Please bear in mind that our service is not to purchase online prescriptions your Instant Consult GP will only prescribe them if they are clinically appropriate.
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How Do I Order My Prescription Medication Online
Each state is a little different when it comes to getting your online prescription through the phone or through a video chat. The 29 states that require video chats are as follows:
- Alabama
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Once you have determined which method is available in your state head over to find an online doctor via an online service. You can use services like Teladoc, Amwell, Livehealthonline, Doctorondemand, or Plushcare. All of these services are similar with a few treating some ailments and not others. Once you have selected your doctor youll likely be on a call within minutes. Next, choose your pharmacy and youll be good to go.
If youre ready to take a look at some online doctor options, and arent entirely sure where to start be sure to check out our ranking of the 10 best online doctor services today!
Can Online Doctors Prescribe Adderall
No. Adderall is classified as a controlled substance and therefore cannot be prescribed online. It is illegal for anyone to prescribe or sell Adderall online. Other substances that cannot be prescribed online include: other stimulants , antipsychotic medications , sedatives and sleep aids , and narcotics , to name a few.
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What Are Antibiotics
Antibiotics are medicines used to treat infections caused by bacteria. Bacteria are micro-organisms or germs that can live both inside and outside of the body. Some bacteria are harmful and cause infections, while others are harmless or beneficial. Several different types of antibiotics are available, and the doctor will prescribe one suitable for your infection.
Can You Buy A Z
Sydney Garrow
Sydney Garrow
Sydney is a contributing health writer and editor who enjoys shedding light on health topics, making information available to anyone who wants it, and ending stigmas or lack of access to care and treatment.
Certified by
Leann Poston, M.D.
Leann Poston, M.D.
Leann Poston, M.D. earned her medical degree from the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine. She completed an MBA from Raj Soin College of Business, focusing on healthcare. She is a full-time medical communication writer and educator.
6 minutes
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How To Get A Prescription Online
Hassle-free online doctor consultation prescriptions have arrived, and they are taking the world by storm. No longer are patients sitting around in pain because the doctors have a long waitlist till the next available appointment . With online everything these days, there’s no reason why your healthcare can’t be accommodated over the internet, as well. With convenient mobile apps, video and SMS appointments, and computer-generated doctor’s appointments, there’s no reason why you should ever have to wait more than a few minutes to “see” the doctor.
Of course, there are a lot of options when it comes to getting an online doctor prescription. And you want to make sure you are making a good choice. In general, look for these top features to ensure that you receive a quality experience from your telehealth professionals services:
Side Effects Of Antibiotics
Each antibiotic medication has its own side effects. Generally, side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort may be experienced by some people. Others may have an allergic reaction, such as a rash, itchiness or breathlessness. If you have persistent or worsening side effects or suspect you are allergic to antibiotics then tell your doctor. It is also worth noting that antibiotics are not specific – they will also destroy the good bacteria that normally live in the body such as those in your intestine.
If you have an infection, your doctor will carefully consider your case and balance the benefits and risks of treatment before prescribing antibiotics.
Reviewed by: Dr Junaid Patel Date: 26 September 2019Next review: 25 September 2021All UK registered doctors can have their registration checked on The Medical Register at the GMC website.
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Where Can I Buy A Z
You can get a Z-pack prescribed online through EverydayDrs partner site, PlushCare. You can make an appointment with a licensed physician and get your prescription ordered all in one place. All you need to do is tell your doctor during your video appointment which pharmacy to send your prescription to and pick it up when it is ready.
Do Online Doctors Accept Insurance
Virtually every health insurer or provider offers telemedicine, so if you have insurance the first thing you should do is check with either your providers office or their insurance company to find out how to access telehealth visits.
An insurance plan requires you to access telehealth through the provider website. Providers or insurers usually contract with companies like Teladoc for the technology to provide telehealth, but they provide the actual telemedicine visit. You’ll need to contact your insurance company to make sure your insurance is accepted.
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Best Pediatric: Anytime Pediatrics
- Pricing: Flat fee
- Accepts Insurance: Yes
- Platform: Web and app
Why We Chose It: Anytime Pediatrics eliminates stress by allowing you to consult with a pediatrician via telemedicine when your child is ill or injured and the office is closed.
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Accessible 24/7 from a browser or smartphone app
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Dedicated solely to pediatrics
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Provides on-demand and scheduled telehealth visits
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Routine follow-ups are available for children with chronic illnesses or mental health conditions
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May be covered by insurance plans that include telehealth services
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For those without insurance or qualifying insurance, telehealth services are charged at a flat fee “far less than what youll pay at most retail clinics, urgent cares and emergency rooms.”
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You are only charged if you complete the visit
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Better suited for minor medical concerns rather than for urgent care
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Insurance claims need to submitted through your regular pediatrician
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Payment is initiated once the consultation begins
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Although routine follow-up services are offered, they should not be considered a substitute for your child’s regular pediatrician
Anytime Pediatrics offers video visits with your own pediatrician or with another local pediatrician. This telemedicine app accepts many insurance plans and also offers a private pay option.
Anytime Pediatrics provides a virtual medicine platform to thousands of pediatricians, which means you may be able to access your regular doctor through the service.
The Risk Of Taking Antibiotics Without Prescription
One thing to take note is the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. According to World Health Organization , two of the reasons that they continue to emerge that make it harder to treat common diseases like pneumonia, tuberculosis, gonorrhoea, and salmonellosis, is misuse and overuse of antibiotics in humans and in animals.
Antibiotics-resistant bacteria means higher medical costs, longer hospital stay and higher chance of complications in infections. Aside from misuse and overuse, lack of infection prevention and control increases chance for the bacteria to be resistant.
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Get A Prescription To Treat Your Sinus Infection
We set up Lemonaid to make it simple to get the convenient affordable medical care you need regardless of insurance, and sinus infections are one of the most common health problems.
With our sinus treatment service you can have a same day online visit. Our doctors or nurse practitioners can work out if youve got a sinus infection. Most sinus infections are caused by viruses, but some are caused by bacteria. Viral infections typically get better within a week without treatment. If we think you have a bacterial infection thats safe to treat online, we can give you a prescription.
How To Get Prescription Medications For Your Pets
You probably feel like your pet is a member of your family too. But we have all been there when it comes to pet ailments. They all seemingly happen at the worst possible moments-typically at home far past the normal veterinary business hours. Everyone knows that a trip to the emergency vet virtually triples the price of a vet during office hours. Luckily there are ways to prevent these expensive trips to the emergency vet- you guessed it, online veterinary care. If you are looking for an in-depth look into veterinary care for your pet check out our piece on online pet care.
Most of the services are similar to an in-person vet visit though without the lab work. A number of common pet ailments can be resolved with just a little bit of advice from a vet. Our top pick for overall vet care was VetLive. VetLive promises to figure out what is wrong with your pet or the service is free. These licensed vets are able to prescribe medications for your pets or make other recommendations. Most of these services do require a monthly fee.
Another great option is Chewy.com. Chewy is another 24/7 site that has one of the largest online pharmacies for all kinds pets. Chewy is filled with all of the common medications that you will need to care for your pet including flea and tick medicine, ear treatments, eye care, skin treatments and more. They even have medications for horses.
Are you ready to get your online prescription? Check out these legal online prescription services.
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