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Getting to the doctor's office can be inconvenient for some and just plain dangerous for others. Thankfully, technology can help. Now, you can speak to a doctor or GP from the comfort of your own home. You don't even have to get out of bed if you don't want to.
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An online doctor is just like any other GP – except the appointment usually takes place via video call rather than face-to-face. Online doctors are fully qualified and do everything from giving advice and writing prescriptions to issuing medical certificates and specialist referrals.
You may have heard people talking about telehealth in relation to online doctors. Telehealth encompasses all health services that are provided via telecommunication. This could be over the phone, via messenger or on a video call. Online doctor services fall under the umbrella of telehealth.
How does it work?
Using an online doctor is easy and straightforward. Just book an appointment through the online doctor services' website, and the doctor will video call you for the consultation.
If you need a prescription, some online doctors can also post the medication straight to your door, or they can send it directly to a pharmacy of your choice.
While you might be charged a fee for some online doctor services, others can be bulk billed, so convenience doesn't have to come at a price.
What services can be provided by an online doctor?
Online doctors provide standard GP consultations. Often, other services are available, but they vary between different providers. Common services include the following:
Instant medical advice
Prescriptions
Mental health services
Medical certificates
Referrals
Can I get a prescription from an online doctor?
Yes. Most prescriptions are available from online doctors. You'll have to take part in a video call and chat to the doctor about any symptoms you might be having, but they should be able to prescribe suitable medication.
However, not all medication can be prescribed by an online doctor. It's unlikely that strong painkillers or opiates will ever be prescribed via an online doctor and other high-risk medication might also be ruled out.
If you're unsure, you can always chat with the online doctor and they will give you advice about how – and where – to get the best help for your needs.
Once the online doctor has prescribed your medication, they may be able to post it directly to your door. Alternatively, they can send it to a pharmacist of your choice.
Do online doctors bulk bill?
Yes, some online doctors bulk bill. Be sure to check the website to make sure it offers bulk billing before booking your appointment. Our comparison table also shows which popular online doctor services offer bulk billing.
Where else can I get online health advice?
Not sure you need a doctor's appointment just yet? There are plenty of other places you can get health advice online – just make sure you're reading a reputable source.
With so much information on the Internet, it's hard to know which websites you can trust for health advice and which websites are unreliable. Health Direct is among the most trusted medical advice websites for Australians.
It's a government-supported site and has heaps of helpful information on well over 1,000 health topics ranging from contraception and pregnancy through to alcoholism and exercise.
What are some key things to consider?
Online doctor services are great if you need a reasonably routine appointment but don't want the stress or inconvenience of visiting a doctor. However, there are some important points to consider before you book your telehealth appointment.
Not all health issues are easily diagnosed or treated online. If a physical examination or test is required on the spot, an online appointment might not be the best option. If you still go ahead and the doctor can't treat you, you might not be able to get a refund.
Is your doctor trustworthy and experienced? Most online doctor services will share reviews from patients as well as the qualifications of your doctor.
You'll need a good Internet connection. If you have a patchy connection, you might not be able to have a meaningful conversation with your doctor. Some online doctor services won't offer refunds if you can't connect, so double-check their terms and conditions to be sure.
Can I get a doctor to visit my home?
Yes. The National Home Doctor Service (13SICK) provides urgent after-hours medical care to patients in their own home. The service is available in most capital cities and can even be bulk billed.
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Nicola Middlemiss is a contributing writer at Finder, with a special interest in personal finance and insurance. Formerly a business and finance journalist, Nicola has written thousands of articles helping Australians better understand insurance and grow their personal wealth. She has contributed to a wide range of publications, including Domain, the Educator, Financy, Fundraising and Philanthropy, Insurance Business, MoneyMag, Mortgage Professional, Yahoo Finance, Your Investment Property, and Wealth Professional. Nicola has a Tier 1 General Insurance (General Advice) certification and a Bachelor's degree from the University of Leeds.
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