Online prescription

An online prescription is a prescription issued after an appropriate remote clinical assessment. It may be provided electronically, but online consultation and electronic prescription are different concepts. A doctor decides whether prescribing is appropriate and lawful, and a pharmacy separately assesses and dispenses the medicine.

Is it the same as an eScript?

An eScript is a digital prescription format. A clinician can issue one after an in-person or suitable telehealth consultation. The patient may receive a token by SMS or email to present to a pharmacy. The token gives access to the prescription; it is not the physical medicine.

Check your contact details carefully and keep the token private. If it does not arrive, contact the issuing service through its official channel. Repeatedly booking another consultation may create confusion rather than resolve a delivery problem.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: eScript — electronic prescription - Healthdirect Australia.

Can I request a repeat of existing treatment?

You can explain what you currently use and provide relevant records, but the doctor must assess whether continuing it is appropriate. Monitoring, examination or information from your usual clinician may be needed. Not every medicine or situation is suitable for remote prescribing.

Bring the current packaging or a reliable medicines list, previous results and details of allergies or unwanted effects. Be clear about how much supply remains, without assuming that running out removes the need for assessment. Do not share prescriptions or use someone else's treatment.

What costs and follow-up should I expect?

The consultation fee and pharmacy cost are separate unless the provider explicitly states otherwise. Availability at a pharmacy and any delivery charge are also separate from the clinical decision.

Read Doccio's prescription service information and pricing. A prescription is not guaranteed, and urgent illness may require in-person care. If symptoms worsen while waiting for a routine request, seek the appropriate level of medical help.

Where to go next

Read prescription consultations to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.