1. Patient Eligibility:

• Online prescribing is sometimes only appropriate for patients who have previously been seen in person by the prescribing provider or for established patients who have a valid relationship with the provider. However, for less complicated cases online prescribing in some cases is appropriate for new patients or for patients who have not been seen in person by the provider in the past.

2. Patient Assessment:

• The online prescriber must conduct a thorough assessment of the patient’s medical history, current medications, and current health status before prescribing any medications.
• This assessment may include a review of the patient’s medical records, a review of any relevant laboratory or diagnostic tests, and a review of the patient’s current symptoms and conditions.

3. Medication Selection:

• The prescribing provider must carefully consider the appropriateness of any medications being prescribed, taking into account the patient’s medical history, current medications, and current health status.
• The prescribing provider must also consider the potential risks and benefits of the medications being prescribed and ensure that the patient is aware of any potential side effects or adverse reactions.

4. Documentation:

• The prescribing provider must maintain detailed and accurate records of all online prescribing activities, including patient assessment, medication selection, and any follow-up care.
• These records must be readily accessible for review by the provider and any regulatory agencies.

5. Communication:

• The prescribing provider must maintain clear and timely communication with the patient, including providing appropriate follow-up care and monitoring the patient’s progress.
• The prescribing provider must also ensure that the patient has access to appropriate resources and support, such as information on how to take the medication safely and effectively.

6. Training and Certification:

• All providers who engage in online prescribing must be trained and certified in the proper use of online prescribing platforms and in the appropriate prescribing of medications.
• Training must be regularly updated to ensure that all providers are knowledgeable and compliant with the online prescribing policy.

An online prescribing audit may be conducted by a government agency, a professional organization, or an independent auditor. The results of the audit can be used to identify any areas of concern or non-compliance and to make recommendations for improvement.

Overall, an online prescribing audit is an important tool for ensuring the safety and quality of care provided by online prescribing websites and healthcare providers.

One concern is the accuracy of the diagnoses made by online healthcare providers. Without the ability to physically examine a patient, it can be difficult for the online provider to accurately diagnose and treat a condition. This can lead to inappropriate prescribing or inadequate treatment.

Another concern is the quality of the medications that are prescribed. Some online pharmacies may sell counterfeit or substandard medications, which can pose a serious risk to patient safety. This may occur whilst not adequately protecting patient privacy. The transmission of personal and medical information over the internet can leave patients vulnerable to identity theft or other privacy breaches.

Overall, it is important for patients to be cautious when using online prescribing websites and to carefully research the website and provider before agreeing to any treatment. It is also a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider in person for more serious or complex medical conditions.

To create this document, GPhC Licensed Pharmacist Prescriber Voytek Bereza performed a risk analysis in order to identify potential risks associated with the most common online prescribed medicines. This was conducted in order to evaluate the likelihood and severity of potential common events. The document then goes on to determine the appropriate measures to mitigate or eliminate risk.

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