How Remote and Online Pharmacies Work

Remote and Online Pharmacies Work

Remote and Online Pharmacies Work

When you think of a pharmacy, the same image probably pops up into your head: a drug chain or retail store that combines shopping and pharmacy, with pharmaceutical staff onsite to hand over your prescription and answer any questions you have. This is definitely the most common type of pharmacy, but it is by no means the only one!

In fact, remote, online, or mail-order pharmacies have been steadily increasing in recent years. This could be due in part to the Covid-19 pandemic, which has made remote options possible in a variety of fields. Even outside of the pandemic, online pharmacies stand out as great options for people on the go. But how exactly do they work?

How Legal Online Pharmacies Operate

The first big distinction to make is that there are legal online pharmacies and illegal online pharmacies. Legal pharmacies have passed all of the necessary certifications, sell proper medication, and employ pharmaceutical professionals. Illegal pharmacies operate more in the black market sphere, and employ unlicensed employees selling untested or illegal drugs. That is why we will be speaking only on how legal online pharmacies work!

Online pharmacies generally first have their customers create an account. They will most likely ask you to fill in your medical history, insurance information, and method of payment such as a credit card. From there, you will be asked to send in a valid prescription from your doctor if you are wanting medication that is not over the counter. After that, you will fill in your address and your medication will be shipped right to you!

Online pharmacies also have places where you can contact or ask questions of the pharmacists on staff. There may be a phone number to call in inquiries, or an email given to send in any questions or concerns. You may also be able to personally speak over the phone or through an app to the licensed pharmacist. In addition, many online websites such as Canada Drugs sell over the counter medication as well as prescriptions, letting you order everything you need from one area.

Beware of Sketchy Websites!

While legal online pharmacies have a lot to offer, you need to be aware of sketchy websites that will seek to steal your information or deliver different products than they have advertised. Most online pharmacies will either be a spin-off branch to a real headquarters or have a clear address and easily-traceable history. If the pharmacy website you find does not have either of those, it may be a scam.

As a good rule of thumb, you should not buy from any websites that do not require a prescription or even a consultation before sending you medication. You could be getting products that are not FDA approved, or the site may simply want to steal your credit card information. Other sites may seem fine, but not protect the information of their customers. Exercise caution and do your research, and all will be well!

Welcome Remote Pharmacies, a New Wave in Medicine!

Hopefully, remote pharmacies change how you see and interact with pharmacies! They present a new wave in medicine where you can speak to a professional pharmacist and receive vital medication without even needing to leave your home. Consumers love remote and online pharmacies for the flexibility, ease, and security that they offer.

Make sure that you are doing business with a legitimate online pharmacy, and you will be amazed at how convenient it is! The ability to refill prescriptions and order safe and needed medication all from your desk is certainly a sign we are entering a new age in healthcare.