With our world becoming ever more digitalized, it’s perhaps no surprise that this trend has extended to healthcare. These days you can access all sorts of health services online, from video calls with doctors to virtual therapy sessions. One of the increasingly popular digital medical services people are choosing to use is online pharmacies. Read on to find out more.
What is an online pharmacy?
In essence, an online pharmacy is a convenient way to get your medication without having to visit a chemist in person. This makes them perfect if you have a busy lifestyle, don’t feel comfortable talking to a pharmacist in person about your medical needs, or don’t live within easy reach of a pharmacy. You can order all sorts of medication this way, from the contraceptive pill to treatments for migraines, acne, hay fever, hair loss, and STDs.
How does it work?
Using an online pharmacy is simple. The exact process may vary depending on the specific chemist you use, but it generally works in the following way:
- You fill in a digital questionnaire covering your medical history, current health, and other relevant factors when making your order
- Your order and information will be assessed by a registered prescriber
- Once approved, your order will be passed to the in-house pharmacy
- Your medication will then be dispatched (often using next-day delivery services) directly to your chosen address
Another option is to upload a private prescription, which will then be assessed. You’ll be provided with a quote for the price and delivery schedule, and if you’re happy with it you can make the payment and have your medication sent out to you directly.
Is the service confidential?
Some people might worry about privacy when using an online pharmacy, but rest assured that they are completely confidential. For example, you can usually choose whether or not to have your doctor informed about the fact that you’ve ordered medication online (the pharmacy will be able to advise you further about this if you’re unsure).
Secondly, any order you make will be dispatched to you in plain, discreet packaging. That means that there will be no branding on the parcel, and the company name and contents will not be visible. As such, you can feel confident ordering sildenafil citrate (generic Viagra) or any other medication for personal health conditions without nosy neighbors or the person who delivers your mail finding out.
Lastly, your personal information will be protected from start to finish. Your medical records and any questions you ask, purchases you make, or advice you seek will be kept entirely confidential between you and the pharmacy.
Are online pharmacies safe?
Ordering medication online can be risky, which is why it’s important that you choose an online pharmacy that is fully regulated by the relevant bodies. This means you can trust that you’ll be receiving safe medication that’s been obtained from a registered pharmaceutical wholesaler and confirmed as authentic. In addition, you’ll know that every member of the pharmacy team you speak to is highly qualified, andpassionate about their job and healthcare in general.