Can I Get a Prescription Without Seeing a Doctor?

Going to the doctor’s office for your medication can be an inconvenience, especially if you just need a prescription for a minor illness or condition. You may be wondering if you can get a prescription without consulting with a doctor. The answer is no – you must see a doctor to get a prescription. However, that doesn’t always mean that you have to make a trip to the doctor’s office.

Obtaining a Prescription Through Telemedicine

You may have heard of an emerging field called telehealth, which uses technology to provide health services. Telemedicine is a subset of telehealth that refers specifically to an online consultation with a doctor, usually done over video chat on a phone or computer. The convenience of telemedicine appeals to many patients. These consultations may take just 10-15 minutes and can be conducted from the comfort of home.

With telemedicine, you can get a prescription without physically traveling to a doctor. You can talk to a physician and receive a diagnosis using technology. If you require medication for your condition, the doctor will send the prescription to the pharmacy of your choice. Then you can pick up the prescription or have it mailed to you. Telemedicine is a convenient way to fill prescriptions without making a trip to the doctor’s office every time.

Filling an Rx from Your Virtual Doctor?

Things to Keep in Mind When Using Telemedicine

Although telemedicine can be a convenient option for many patients, there are some things to keep in mind before seeking these services.

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 state’s laws. Or, you can ask your chosen telehealth platform.

Not All Medications Can be Prescribed via Telemedicine

A federal law known as the Ryan Haight Act regulates prescriptions of controlled substances. Under this law, doctors must see a patient in person before prescribing a controlled substance online, or the patient’s circumstances need to meet one of seven exceptions specified in the law. This makes it very difficult for a doctor to prescribe a controlled substance via online consultation. Some telemedicine platforms even prohibit their doctors from prescribing controlled substances.

Consider the State Where the Doctor Is Located

With telemedicine, you could be seeing a doctor located in a different state than you. It’s important to verify that your doctor is licensed to practice in your state. Telehealth platforms will usually ask you what state you’re located in, and then match you with a doctor able to practice there.

How Much Does a Telemedicine Visit Cost?

The cost for telemedicine services varies by platform, but a consultation is often just as affordable as an in-person visit, if not cheaper. Some platforms even accept insurance. If you’re uninsured, there are options available that will cost you as little as $15-$20 per visit.

Telemedicine is great for routine conditions such as sinus infections, bacterial infections, or allergies. It can also be used to monitor an ongoing or chronic condition. The field of telehealth is offering patients more convenience and, in many cases, more affordable treatment. Still, many patients are uninsured or underinsured and struggle with the cost of medications or doctor visits.

Whether you need a routine prescription or are managing a chronic condition, make sure you have savings in your pocket. Download the ScriptSave WellRx app today and compare pricing between pharmacies.

References:

https://www.enzymehealth.com/blog/guide-to-telemedicine-prescribing-for-providers/

https://www.cchpca.org/telehealth-policy/online-prescribing