How to Find a Legitimate Online Doctor
Physicians use Internet technology to connect with patients. According to Elizabeth Cohen of "CNN Health," gone are the days where you found your doctor locally by word of mouth. Online doctors are available for consultations and can even prescribe the medications you need. An online doctor is ideal for patients who cannot leave their home easily or do not have specialists nearby. However, consumers need to fully research the sites before subscribing to services.
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Instructions
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Inquire if your local doctor or specialist gives online consultations. Many doctors support email and webcam consultations to their patients. You already have a relationship with this particular doctor so you know his background is legitimate. Also, the doctor understands your medical history.
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Visit online doctors at sites like American Well, Interactive MD and Healthcare Magic offer doctor consults 24 hours a day.
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Look for high quality information on the website. Beware of a website with lots of medical advice without any references. Legitimate online doctors should have some accreditation from organizations, such as The National Committee for Quality Assurance and VerifPoint. These organizations are committed to quality healthcare and are unbiased.
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Check for a real address, telephone number and email address. Real online doctors provide this kind of basic information about themselves or the company. Click the "About Us" or "FAQ" tab on the website to read more information about the company. If anything sounds strange, use caution when dealing with them.
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Examine the site for cheap prescription medications. Some websites set up online consults only as a way to sell prescriptions from outside the United States. The focus on the website is geared towards these kinds of sales rather than real doctor consultations.
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Read the disclaimers on the online doctor's website. It should acknowledge some patients' rights. If the disclaimer relieves the company of any responsibility from the consultation, be wary of its legitimacy.
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Tips & Warnings
Contact your medical insurance about online doctors. Some insurance providers are starting online medical consultations.
Some well-known doctors who have their own websites offer consultations. Be sure to check for a valid medical license.
Watch out for high fees up front or lack of email or telephone correspondence after paying.
If the online doctor sound too good to be true, be wary of its legitimacy.
References
Resources
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