Should I try an online GP?

Say goodbye to long waiting lists and hello to modern medical help within minutes!

With NHS budgets stretched to the max, booking an appointment can prove a struggle. To make life easier, many pharmacies and surgeries now offer online medical help. But is this service as simple as it sounds? PROS Invaluable when abroad

Falling ill when away from home can be especially stressful, particularly if there are language barriers. An online consultancy with an English-speaking GP who can provide you with a prescription, wherever you are, could make falling ill a little less unbearable.

No more waiting

Access to online medical help means no waiting – you can speak to a doctor within minutes of booking an appointment.

Instant diagnosis

We’re all guilty of looking up symptoms online, which can lead to a scary self-diagnosis. Proper medical help online from a professional means (where possible) an instant, expert opinion.

Privacy guaranteed

Online appointments mean you can book an appointment discreetly, or buy a prescription to be delivered to your home without having to tell anyone the problem.

CONS Danger of misdiagnosis

Without a physical examination there’s a possibility of a misdiagnosis; for example, a doctor may have to listen to your chest which is impossible over Skype.

It can be costly

Online GP appointments are classed as private consultations, meaning there is a fee for every appointment. Depending on the service, this fee can be paid via a monthly subscription service. Prescriptions are also likely to be more expensive than what you’d usually pay on the NHS.

It’s impersonal

An online GP will be a complete stranger and, unless you send them your medical history, they won’t have access to all your medical records.

Watch out for scams

We’ve listed some of the online services we trust (right) but keep in mind that some online services could be a scam so check the site thoroughly before making any payments.