Ask A Doctor Online: Common Questions Asked by Patients

Posted 03-14-2009 3:38 am by
We thought it would be interesting to research some of the common questions (and answers provided) by the most popular Ask A Doctor Online sites.

Since most Ask A Doctor Online sites ultimately are a result in the patient seeking online consultations and prescriptions, these results are reported by the Food and Drug Administration.

1. Why is FDA concerned about unlawful drug sales on the Internet?
2. Are there any benefits to purchasing approved drugs online?
3. How many web sites sell prescription drugs?
4. How many people have been harmed from drugs purchased over the Internet?
5. If FDA is not aware of adverse events associated with approved drugs sold online, why does the agency think that unlawful online sale is a big problem?
6. Why shouldn't the online pharmacy industry be self-regulated?
7. Some Websites offer to prescribe medication based only on a questionnaire. Is this a safe practice? Is it legal?
8. How many states have acted against web sites selling prescription drugs?
9. Who will FDA refer complaints to at the state level?
10. How will FDA integrate its efforts with the White House Electronic Commerce Working Group?
11. What are international organizations like WHO doing about Internet prescribing and dispensing?
12. Can an American patient get a medication not approved in the U.S. from a foreign dispenser?
13. Is it illegal for a foreign pharmacy to ship prescription medicines into the U.S.?

Rather than seeking online consultations and prescriptions, some Internet information seekers use Ask A Doctor Online sites to gather information about ‘sensitive’ subject matter that they may not be comfortable talking about with their family doctor. Vasectomy.com, a popular Ask A Doctor Online Site, as an example, reports the following to be their top 10 Questions:

1. Basically, what is a vasectomy?
2. How long does the No-Scalpel procedure and recovery take?
3. How effective is a No-Scalpel vasectomy?
4. What happens to the sperm?
5. Will my sex life be affected?
6. What is the cost of a No-Scalpel vasectomy?
7. Are there risks or complications?
8. Can a vasectomy be reversed?

Their summary includes the following:

In Summary:

A vasectomy should be considered absolutely irreversible and one should not rely on the concept of reversal later.
Be primed to ask as many questions as possible. Remember an informed decision is best in these matters
Your ability to have an erection or enjoy sex does not physically change as a result of Vasectomy.
A vasectomy is a safe, simple, and highly successful procedure.
The No-Scalpel method is regularly favored over a traditional vasectomy.
Always discuss your concerns with the doctor of your choice. [Remember KoolDocs.com can provide excellent second opinions for further reassurances.]
Results are not instantaneous; it may be days or even weeks before sterility is complete. Continue to use protection methods for a period of time.
Risks are low and complications are rare. This procedure is safe.

Get a prescription online at www.KoolDocs.com Your #1 Source for Online Medical Consultations and Online Prescriptions.

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