Did you know that a survey conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation found 24% of people find it difficult to afford their prescriptions?
For people taking multiple prescriptions, the high costs of medications can be a serious burden. Many have taken to searching for less costly options.
Online pharmacies have stood out as inexpensive alternatives to traditional brick-and-mortar pharmacies. But how exactly do online pharmacies differ?
We’re here to fill you in. Keep reading below to learn about online pharmacies and how buying prescriptions online could benefit you.
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Benefits of Getting Your Prescriptions Online
One of the biggest reasons people have started ordering medications online is to avoid costly prescription fees. Many of these pharmacies have the option of purchasing your prescriptions in bulk, which lowers the prices.
Online pharmacies are also beneficial if you’re unable to travel to a brick-and-mortar pharmacy. Online pharmacies deliver your order straight to your door.
Even if you have an accessible pharmacy nearby, it’s possible they won’t have the prescription or specific manufacturer you require. Buying pharmaceutical drugs online gives patients the ability to browse the pharmacy’s website for their specific medications. This saves patients the hassle of arriving at the pharmacy only to learn their pharmacist doesn’t have their required prescription in stock.
Online Pharmacy Basics
So, how exactly do digital pharmacies work? Well, they operate much like traditional pharmacies. They have a staff of pharmacists who fill orders, communicate with doctors, and answer patient questions.
The main difference has to do with the transfer of the product from the pharmacy to the patient. Online pharmacies mail their orders to patients. Many offer different options, varying from the standard 7-10 day shipping to overnight shipping.
What to Look For
While there are plenty of legitimate online pharmacies, there are also a handful of rogue pharmacies attempting to profit off naive patients. Be sure to thoroughly vet a pharmacy before buying your prescriptions from them. Many countries offer lists of federally vetted pharmacies if you’re uncomfortable searching on your own.
To avoid being scammed, always make sure that the pharmacy requires a prescription. It’s illegal to sell prescription drugs without a doctor’s order, so any pharmacy offering medication without requiring a prescription is fraudulent.
It’s wise to also search for an online pharmacy with strong customer service reviews. After all, if you have questions about your order, you’ll want to be able to immediately get feedback and answers.
It’s important to also be mindful of the limitations that online pharmacies face. The majority are unable to ship medications that require refrigeration and some controlled substances.
Review their shipping policies as well. Not every pharmacy that sells prescriptions online offers overnight shipping. So, if you need a prescription immediately, it may be wise to opt for a local pharmacy.
Finding the Best Pharmacy Fit
Digital pharmacies can be the perfect solution for some people. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to get your prescriptions delivered to your door, they may be the perfect fit for you too! If you’re interested in buying your prescriptions online, the guide above will give you a jumping-off point!
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