How to keep safe when getting medicines or treatment online

Summary

Online healthcare services and apps can help people take more control of their health, by getting access to care easily and when it suits them. You need to make sure any medicine, treatment or health advice you get is safe and right for you.

These six top tips from UK health organisations will help you keep safe if you decide to go online.

Content

1. Check if the online healthcare service and healthcare professionals working there are registered with UK regulators 
2. Ask questions about how the service works
3. Answer questions honestly about your health and medical history 
4. Find out your options for treatment and how to take any medicines you’re prescribed
5. Expect to be asked for consent for information to be shared with other healthcare professionals involved in your care
6. Check what after-care you will receive.

Below are some specific guides you may also find useful:

• How to check if a service or healthcare professional is registered in the UK, and what to do if you’re unhappy with the care you receive.
• The standards you can expect of UK healthcare professionals giving ‘remote’ consultations and prescribing online.

Access the full guide, supported by the General Pharmaceutical Council and others, via the link below.