How e‑prescriptions work after your visit

Audience: all

After a telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider may send an electronic prescription (e-prescription) directly to your chosen pharmacy. This process helps you get your medications quickly and safely without needing a paper prescription. E-prescriptions are typically secure and reduce errors by clearly communicating your medication details to the pharmacy. You can often track when your prescription is ready for pickup or delivery. It’s important to understand how e-prescriptions work, what to expect after your visit, and when to seek further help. This guide explains the e-prescription process, preparation tips for your tele-visit, and what steps to take after receiving your prescription.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• You experience severe allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or rash after taking prescribed medication — seek emergency care immediately.
• You notice unexpected side effects like chest pain, severe dizziness, or fainting after starting a new medication — contact your healthcare provider promptly.
• You do not receive your prescribed medication within the expected time frame and your symptoms worsen — reach out to your healthcare provider or pharmacy without delay.

What telemedicine can do

• Routine medication prescriptions for common conditions
• Medication refills and adjustments based on stable health status
• Providing instructions and education about prescribed medications

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergencies requiring immediate in-person assessment
• Complex medication management needing physical exams or lab tests
• Prescriptions for controlled substances where regulations require in-person visits

What is an e-prescription?

An e-prescription is a digital version of a medication order sent by your healthcare provider to a pharmacy. Instead of a paper slip, the prescription travels electronically, helping to reduce mistakes and speed up the process. This method is widely used in telemedicine visits to ensure you get your medication efficiently.

How e-prescriptions are sent after your telemedicine visit

After your appointment, your provider reviews your health information and decides if medication is needed. If so, they send the e-prescription directly to a pharmacy you choose. You may receive a notification or instructions on how to pick up or receive your medicine. Pharmacies often prepare your medication in advance, saving you time.

Benefits of e-prescriptions

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What to do if you have questions or issues

If you do not receive your medication or have questions about your prescription, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacy promptly. Sometimes, pharmacies may need additional information or approval before dispensing certain medicines. Always follow the instructions provided and ask for clarification if needed.

Preparing for your telemedicine visit to get an e-prescription

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After your telemedicine visit: next steps

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How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your current medications, including doses and frequency
• Know your medical history, allergies, and previous medication reactions
• Choose a preferred pharmacy and have its contact information ready
• Prepare a quiet, private space with good internet connection for your tele-visit
• Write down symptoms, questions, or concerns to discuss with your provider

After your tele-visit

• Confirm your e-prescription has been sent to your pharmacy
• Contact the pharmacy to check medication availability and pickup or delivery options
• Follow medication instructions carefully and complete the prescribed course
• Monitor for side effects or adverse reactions and report them promptly
• Schedule follow-up appointments or tests as recommended by your provider

FAQs

How soon will my e-prescription be ready at the pharmacy?

E-prescriptions are typically sent immediately after your telemedicine visit. Pharmacy processing times vary, but many prepare medications within a few hours. You can often call or check online to know when your medication is ready.

Can I choose any pharmacy to receive my e-prescription?

Usually, you can select your preferred pharmacy during or after your telemedicine visit. Make sure to provide accurate contact details to avoid delays. Some providers may have partnerships with specific pharmacies, but you are generally free to choose.

What if I have trouble getting my medication after an e-prescription?

If your medication is not available or there are issues, contact your pharmacy first to clarify. If problems persist, reach out to your healthcare provider for assistance or alternative options.

Are e-prescriptions safe and private?

Yes, e-prescriptions use secure electronic systems designed to protect your personal health information. They reduce errors compared to handwritten prescriptions and help ensure your medication details are accurately communicated.

Can all medications be prescribed electronically?

Most medications can be prescribed electronically, but some controlled or specialized medicines may require in-person visits or additional verification depending on local regulations and safety considerations.

Sources

1. MedlinePlus: Electronic Prescriptions — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Electronic Prescribing — U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
3. Mayo Clinic: E-prescriptions: How they work and what to expect — Mayo Clinic.
4. Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (AHRQ): Electronic Prescribing — U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

This information is intended for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine guidance does not replace in-person evaluation and treatment by a qualified healthcare provider. If you have urgent or severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.