Can online GPs provide prescriptions?

Yes. In Australia, online doctors or medical practitioners can issue a script online. Online prescriptions carry the same legal validity as paper prescriptions for PBS access and dispensing purposes. Both are issued under Australian prescribing law by AHPRA-registered practitioners. Online prescriptions by an online GP are considered valid and legal when –  

• Issued by an AHPRA-registered doctor or nurse practitioner 
• Issued after a proper real consult via telehealth 
• Issued via a telehealth platform registered with the Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA).

All Hola Health practitioners are AHPRA-registered and authorised to prescribe medication within their scope of practice in Australia. If the medication you need is appropriate for telehealth, the doctor or medical practitioner can provide an online prescription. 

AHPRA Guidelines for telehealth prescriptions

Telehealth plays an essential role in Australia’s healthcare system, and recent updates from the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) reaffirm its significance in prioritising safe prescribing practices. 

• Establishing real-time consultations between doctors and patients is fundamental for the safe and effective prescribing of medications. These interactions are critical in safeguarding patient safety and upholding the quality of care delivered. 
• Using questionnaire-based, asynchronous web tools for prescribing medications in the absence of real-time consultations is deemed inappropriate and actively discouraged according to established guidelines. Face-to-face telehealth consultation ensures safe prescribing practices.

Are prescriptions guaranteed?  

No, and they shouldn’t be. A doctor or medical practitioner must assess your symptoms and medical history first. If the medication is safe and appropriate, you’ll get the eScript. If not, the doctor will explain the safest option for you. 

All telehealth doctors and health practitioners at Hola uphold the highest standards of healthcare and have the authority to decline the medication prescription if it is determined that such action would not serve your best interests.

Can a GP refuse to issue a prescription?  

Yes. A GP can decline issuing a prescription if:

• The medication is unsafe for you 
• It’s not appropriate to prescribe via telehealth 
• There are risks or interactions with other medicines you take.

Your safety always comes first. If a prescription isn’t suitable, our doctor will guide you on the next steps. 

For more information, visit Online Script.