What is an online doctor, and is it safe?
An online doctor is a licensed physician who reviews your health information over the internet instead of in a physical clinic. The standards are the same as an in person visit. The doctor looks at your situation, decides whether a treatment is suitable, and only issues a prescription when it is medically appropriate.
Who are the doctors?
Every request is handled by an independent doctor who is licensed in the EU or UK. They are not employed to sell products. They make their own clinical judgement and can decline a request whenever a treatment is not safe or suitable for you. You can meet the people behind the platform on our medical team page.
How does an online doctor review my request?
There are two ways a doctor can assess you, and the right one depends on your treatment:
- A medical questionnaire, where you describe your symptoms, history and current medication, and the doctor reviews your answers.
- A video consultation, where you talk things through live before any decision is made.
Our guide on how an online consultation works walks through both routes step by step.
What an online doctor can and cannot do
An online doctor can review your health information, answer your questions, and prescribe a suitable treatment that is then dispensed by a partner pharmacy. They cannot prescribe something that is unsafe for you, and they will not approve a request when the information points to a better or safer option. This is a normal and healthy part of good care.
Is it safe and confidential?
Yes. Consultations are protected by doctor and patient confidentiality. Your data is encrypted, it is only shared with the professionals directly involved in your care, and it is never sold or used for marketing. Everything is handled in line with GDPR and European medical rules. There is more detail in our privacy policy.
The benefits of seeing a doctor online
- No waiting rooms and no travel time.
- Care you can reach from anywhere in Europe and the UK.
- Flexible timing that fits around your day.
- Licensed doctors with recognised qualifications.
When an online doctor is not the right choice
Online care is ideal for many everyday and ongoing health needs, but it is not for emergencies. If you have severe symptoms, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or any situation that feels urgent, contact your local emergency services straight away.
Common questions
Is an online prescription valid?
Yes. Prescriptions are issued in line with EU and UK guidelines and are accepted by most pharmacies. Read more about the prescription process.
Can I choose my doctor?
Requests are matched to an available licensed doctor. For a video consultation you can often book a follow up with the same doctor within a couple of months.
Curious how the whole service fits together? Have a look at how Transtoyou works.
