It may feel like a pain to take time out of your busy schedule or travel a long distance just to talk to a doctor about medication. Often, these visits can be completed over an internet connection using telemedicine tools. This can make it much more convenient for you to get the medication you need.
An electronic prescription or e-prescription allows doctors to digitally create the prescription that you need to get medication. They can also send the e-prescription directly from the computer or tablet in their office to a pharmacy. You can then pick up your drugs from the pharmacy or potentially even have them shipped to you.
Using e-prescriptions can make it much easier to get new medications or switch drug doses. It may also be safer — traditional handwritten prescriptions are sometimes hard to read and can lead to errors when filling prescriptions.
Many telemedicine tools also include e-prescription services including Eagle Intelligent Health. By using one of these systems, you can have an expert provider located on the other side of the country recommend a medication and then pick it up later that day at your local pharmacy!
Doctors prescribe medications through a telemedicine visit in much the same way that they would when you meet face-to-face. If it seems that you have a health issue, your doctor may suggest trying a particular medication to relieve symptoms or prevent future problems.
When your doctor suggests a new drug, it can help to ask questions to make sure you understand the treatment. Why does your doctor think you should take the medication? Are there any side effects you should watch out for? It also helps to make sure that your doctor knows about all of the different medications and supplements you are currently taking to help prevent any problematic drug interactions.
Additionally, you should make sure you know how to take the medication. You may want to ask:
Some telemedicine platforms allow you to take notes during your appointment so that you can write down the answers to these questions and access them later. You will also be able to see the e-prescription, which will contain information about your medication.
When you set up an account, your telemedicine platform should ask for information about which pharmacy you prefer to use. Your doctor will then make sure to send the e-prescription information to that location.
Once the e-prescription is sent, contact your pharmacy for further questions. For example, you may want to ask when the medication will be ready and when you should come pick it up. Some pharmacies may also offer mailing services so that your prescription can be sent to you. Ask your pharmacy for more information.
If you later forget key details about your medication, simply log back into your telemedicine website or app. Some apps may even allow you to set medication reminders or find drug discounts! Using telemedicine can make it easier than ever before to get the treatments you need.