How to get an online doctor prescription

You might have heard it's possible to get a prescription through an online doctor. But few know the steps necessary to really make it happen. Or they're a little intimidated about this unconventional way of getting healthcare.

You've been going to a traditional doctor's visit your whole life, after all. You know about spending an afternoon in the waiting room reading magazines that have been there for years. It feels familiar -- even if it's inconvenient, expensive, and somewhat outdated.

Have no fear. We'll talk through what types of prescriptions you can and cannot get online- after an evaluation and consultation with your HealthTap doctor. And we'll take you step by step through the process.

As a bonus, we will incorporate some HealthTap-specific processes as well, so you know exactly what to do next.

1. Find out what kinds of online prescriptions you can get

You should always start here. If you can't get a prescription you need online, then no need to continue, right?

First, it's important to note that whether or not you get a prescription is always the doctor's decision. It's the same if you go into a physical office.

So what can't an online doctor prescribe? Laws prohibit online doctors from prescribing:

• Stimulants (e.g., Adderall, Ritalin).

• Antipsychotics (e.g., Seroquel, Zyprexa).

• Sedatives (e.g., Ambien).

• Narcotics (e.g., morphine, oxycodone, Vicodin).

With that said, do you need blood pressure medicine, insulin, allergy meds, antibiotics, acne medicine, hormones, arthritis medication, or anti-anxiety meds? These are some examples of drugs you may get an online prescription for.

So no, you can't get a prescription without going to the doctor. But in most cases, there's no reason you can't attend a virtual office visit and the doctor may prescribe a new medication or refill a prescription.

2. Review your symptoms with online tools

Everyone who has the internet does it. Chances are you do too. You use a search engine to look up your symptoms to see what you might have.

This can help you have a more informed discussion with your online doctor.

With that said, many symptom checkers have a big problem. They're not reviewed by doctors. They're unreliable.

With HealthTap, you can set up a free account. Then, you'll get instant access to doctor-reviewed online symptom checkers powered by AI and a Q&A tool where real doctors answer real patient questions.

3. Find an online doctor

If you aren't yet getting all the benefits of becoming a HealthTap member, you'll need to search online for a doctor. You can use various services to do this. Or try to find someone local who offers telehealth for new patients (a rarity).

That doctor must be U.S. board-certified and licensed to practice in your state. And you'll want to look at the reviews and make sure they're real.

May we suggest an easier way? Now that you have your free HealthTap account set up, why not become a member for a low quarterly fee?

Then choose from a list of outstanding primary care doctors. HealthTap only works with great doctors. So this takes some of the research and hassles off your shoulders.

Each of them loves to work with patients like you through video chat. You can choose and keep an online primary care doctor. They'll get to know you and your medical history.

Not to mention that HealthTap doctors get star-rated by patients like you. This transparency allows you to choose a doctor you'll love who is licensed in your state.

4. Request an appointment

With HealthTap, a doctor can see you 24/7 on-demand or by appointment. If you want to see your chosen primary care doctor, though, you'll need to schedule an appointment.

The typical appointment takes about 10-15 minutes and they have them throughout the day. So even if you're a shift worker, you'll find a time convenient for your sleeping schedule.

And as a member, you pay low member fees. This saves you 40% to 60% off seeing a physical doctor. Plus, there's no transportation, squirming in an uncomfortable waiting room, or being around people who may be contagious.

Before your appointment, your doctor will review relevant health records securely- and compliantly- stored by HealthTap's HIPAA-compliant system.

5. Attend the appointment

During the appointment, you may:

• Get a new diagnosis.

• Review your ongoing treatment plan and symptoms for a chronic condition or ongoing health concern.

• Require additional testing to confirm the diagnosis (it's no different when you see a doctor in person. They want to get it right.).

• As applicable, discuss wellness goals, planning, and condition management.

If you need an online prescription, your online doctor will send it to your local pharmacy of choice within two hours of your visit.

If you need labs or need to see a specialist, they can order labs and provide more information on specialty care. However, you will need to go in person for these services.

They can even write you a doctor's note for work or school. It's just like going to a physical doctor but better, faster, and more convenient.

6. Tap into online prescription savings

As a member, you can also save up to 75% off your regular prescriptions with HealthTap. The average American spends over $1000 per year on prescription meds.

And if you have a chronic condition, your expenses may be much higher.

So this can amount to significant savings. If you're signed up for notifications from your pharmacy, they'll send you a message when it's ready. Then just go pick your online prescription up.

7. Follow-up with your virtual primary care physician

Did you know a University of Pennsylvania study found those receiving virtual healthcare are 22% more likely to follow up with their primary care physician (PCP)?

If needed, follow up with your virtual PCP to check-in, get re-evaluated, or see if you need to tweak your care plan and prescription. With PCP visits being typically lower in cost, you might as well take this extra step to ensure your health.

As you can see, getting an online prescription isn't what you're used to. In many ways, it's better. You get the same great care that fits in easily with your busy life. Set up your free account today.