The past two years grounded everyone to their homes. Availability of even basic necessities became tricky. But as humans always do; we adapted and came up with alternatives for everything. Groceries could be received on the door, work and education shifted to being online; basically, everything turned digital.
Doctors were in high demand, to treat the severe patients and mild ones too. This was when online medicine gained popularity. The mild sufferers could be treated at home, through digital consultation.
The advantages and feasibility that online medication offered, appealed to both; the doctors and patients and now it has become a very common practice.
Online medication offers several benefits, a few of which include- Accessibility to people with physical limitations, to people from remote areas, approachability, affordable and convenient treatment and providing the same results.
Though online medication is very safe, safety violations are a concern everywhere you go. Online medication is no exception. Swindles can occur anywhere; therefore, some guidelines should be observed to ensure you get safe treatment.
Here are a few tips that will ensure a smooth and non-risky treatment-
A] Inquire if the health service organization is registered
None of us is ignorant of the widespread online fraud. Money loss still can be dealt with, but health is no joke. Mis-diagnosis or ill-treatment can put you into grave trouble and sometimes even be life-threatening. Hence, researching about the online medical health provider, the reviews, if they are registered, their qualification all becomes very necessary. It is always a good idea to avail of these services after taking a recommendation from someone you trust. If your family doctor provides the same services then there is nothing like it.
B] Ask about how the service works
Being aware of the procedure can help you understand the authenticity and prepare you for the treatment. Read and understand the terms and conditions of the service thoroughly. Ask if you will be getting a local treatment too if you need it. Insurance companies may not always cover your online treatment charges, hence interrogating if your fees will be covered by insurance; if not, get a rough estimate of the costs that will be involved and evaluate if it is affordable.
C] Give Accurate Answers
Hiding your health condition from the doctor, or understating it, is like jumping into a well. Better the health care provider knows you, the better the treatment you receive, and the better the recovery will be. You need to precisely answer all the questions asked and never lie about your health.
D] Written Record
A written document is highly crucial wherever you go. It implies the medical health provider is ready to take responsibility for the prescribed drugs and depicts his confidence. Sometimes when a medical malfunction occurs, you can hold them responsible and ask for compensation. Therefore, make sure you get a signed and written report from the health care provider.
E] Demand for Documents
The health care provider might ask for your consent to share the details of your condition with other professionals to ensure you receive safe care. This does not hold true for sexual treatments, however.
The doctor may ask for proof of identity to verify that it is you who is accessing the medicines and treatment and not a child or vulnerable person. It could be very inappropriate and dangerous for them.
F] Check on the aftercare received
Ask about what aftercare you will be receiving. Make sure your follow up questions won’t be unanswered and your recovery will be monitored, and in case of any side effects, the doctor is approachable.
G] Transparency
The medical health provider shouldn’t keep you in the dark. They need to provide you advice that is easy to comprehend, they should put forth the alternatives you can consider and they should also warn you of side effects associated with the treatment if any. After being briefed on everything, you can either go for the treatment or deny it.
Online medication is a newfound luxury. Getting medication review, sitting right at your home offers comfort and reduces the anxiety that comes with visiting a clinical setting. Regular checkups can easily be conducted. You might have to buy a few instruments or collect data of your blood report or diabetes count etc. if asked to do so. Some online applications provide certain details too but the accuracy of this cannot be relied upon. If your family doctor provides a digital consultation, then you are saved from all the trouble. But if you look up on the internet and choose a service for you, make sure you research well and take all the above-mentioned points into consideration. If you notice something even slightly suspicious, back out. Your health cannot be mishandled, that is the last thing you want.
