Step-by-Step Guide to Free Online Doctor Consultations

Free Online Doctor Consultation - Your Health Questions Answered

Free online doctor consultation is a virtual service offering free medical advice online. Distance plays a key role in this. You can legally access such services through various platforms. Just open an account and avail the service. It bridges the doctor-patient gap in India.

With the rising cost of healthcare and schedules becoming tighter, free online doctor consultations are necessary. Since India is a large country with varied healthcare needs, virtual doctors revolutionise the medical sector of the country.

However, people often question the legitimacy of such facilities. In this blog, we will answer all your doubts regarding virtual healthcare.

What is a Free Online Doctor Consultation?

Through an online doctor consultation, you can access healthcare opinions from renowned doctors remotely. This service may be part of your doctor’s services or through a website/application. Patients can access these services via online chatting, video or audio calls. And the best part? It is completely free of cost!

Is Online Doctor Consultation Legal in India?

Many people wonder whether doctors can legally provide free telemedicine services in India. According to the Indian Medical Council Act of 1956, all Registered Medical Practitioners (RMPS) can provide virtual consultations. However, they must abide by the Telemedicine Practice guidelines under the Act.

Many platforms and insurance coverage allow for free online doctor consultations. It not only saves you time but also bridges the gap between underprivileged people and healthcare.

Can I Consult a Gynaecologist Online for Free?

Yes, you can consult a gynaecologist online at no cost. You can consult various specialists through online video calls or text. Other specialists you can consult free of cost include:

• Neurologists: If you have any issues with your spinal cord or brain, a neurologist is the right choice for you.
• ENT Specialists: Ear, nose, and throat doctors treat head and neck ailments.
• Dermatologists: If you are facing rashes and itchiness on your skin, consulting a dermatologist will be the best option.
• Cardiologists: If you are a heart patient, referring to a cardiologist via video call or text can be helpful.
• Psychiatrists: By now, we all know the importance of mental health. You can connect with a psychiatrist for related problems.
• General Practitioners: You do not need to have a specific ailment to avail of the free online doctor consultation. General practitioners can help you if you want a regular checkup.

How Does Free Virtual Doctor Work?

Free online doctor consultations may sound complicated, but they are easy to access. There are certain steps you need to follow. They are as follows:

• Register Yourself: Sign up for an online telemedicine platform by providing your phone number and email ID.
• Fill in Your Basic Medical Information: After you create an account, provide your current medical condition and history. Doctors will access this information for diagnosis.
• Select Your Desired Specialist: After filling up your medical information, most platforms will show you a list of available doctors. Choose the one that aligns with your issues.
• Consultation: At the scheduled time, you enter the virtual clinic via video call or text. The doctor will ask you several questions to gauge what your issue is. They may also ask you to check the temperature with a thermometer.
• Doctor Provides a Prescription: After talking with the healthcare professional, you will receive a diagnosis or a prescription with the necessary medications. You may also receive tests to further determine your ailment.
• Follow-up Consultation: After the initial consultation, your doctor will schedule another consultation later. It allows rhythm to check your progress and suggest any changes.

Do Online Doctors Follow Necessary Guidelines?

Online doctors in India are expected to follow the code of conduct when engaging in free online doctor consultation services. Virtual doctors must follow Telemedicine Guidelines, and patients can hold doctors accountable if they violate them.

Is the Virtual Prescription Valid in the Local Medical Store?

Yes, any prescription issued by a Registered Medical Practitioner (RPM) is virtually valid at local stores. They are also valid in online medical shops. Just produce a scanned copy of the prescription, and you should be able to get your required medicines.

When Should I Talk to a Free Doctor Online? 

You can talk to a doctor for free online for a variety of reasons, such as:

• General Consultation: If you need a routine checkup, you can opt for telemedicine.
• Minor Illnesses: Ailments such as cold, flu, rashes, or allergies can be easily diagnosed by a virtual doctor.
• Second Opinions: Many times, patients demand a second opinion for their diagnosis. Virtual and free healthcare can provide it to you conveniently.
• Mental Health: Taking care of your mental health is of utmost importance. If you feel like you need help, a virtual consultation will assist you on your journey.
• Chronic Illnesses: Diabetes and cardiovascular diseases often require regular check-ups and monitoring. You can save time and money with online consultations and dedicate more time to healing.

Why Should I Opt for Free Online Doctor Consultation in India?

Our fast-paced society does not leave time for regular health checkups in our schedule. In this busy lifestyle, taking care of your health is crucial and necessary. Moreover, as most of India’s population resides in rural areas, proper access to doctors is limited.

A free online doctor consultation improves the doctor-to-patient ratio in our country. Moreover, it saves you time, making healthcare available at your fingertips.

With the introduction of ABHA and other government initiatives, India is moving towards a digital healthcare revolution.

Final Words

Free online doctor consultation is on a path to transform the Indian healthcare sector. You can get medical advice without waiting for a long time or travelling. Easily avail expert care from the comfort of your home.

However, cross-check doctor credentials and report any suspicious behaviour to the authorities.