How Online Prescriptions Work in Australia
Getting a prescription online in Australia is now easier than ever. With telehealth services like Medidoc, you can consult with a registered doctor via video or phone call, receive a diagnosis, and have your prescription sent directly to your phone as an electronic script (eScript) - all without leaving home.
Online prescriptions are legal, regulated, and accepted at every pharmacy across Australia. Whether you need a new prescription or a repeat, the process is fast, safe, and convenient.
What Is an eScript?
An eScript (electronic prescription) is a digital version of a traditional paper prescription. Instead of receiving a physical script, your doctor sends a unique token to your mobile phone via SMS. You simply show this token at any Australian pharmacy to collect your medication.
eScripts were introduced nationally in 2020 and are now the standard method of prescribing in Australia. They offer several advantages:
- No paper scripts to lose or forget
- Stored securely on your phone and accessible anytime
- Accepted at all Australian pharmacies, including online pharmacies
- Repeat prescriptions are automatically tracked - no need to keep paper copies
- Can be shared with a carer or family member if needed
What Medications Can Be Prescribed Online?
Doctors can prescribe a wide range of medications through a telehealth consultation. Common prescriptions issued online include:
- Antibiotics - for urinary tract infections, skin infections, chest infections, and more
- Contraception - the oral contraceptive pill, mini pill, and other hormonal contraceptives
- Skin treatments - topical creams for eczema, acne, psoriasis, and fungal infections
- Blood pressure and cholesterol medication - repeat prescriptions for ongoing management
- Asthma and respiratory medications - inhalers and preventers
- Mental health medication - antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications (for existing patients on stable doses)
- Reflux and stomach medications - proton pump inhibitors and antacids
- Erectile dysfunction treatments - prescription-only options available after consultation
- Hair loss treatments - prescription medications for male and female pattern hair loss
- Antivirals - for cold sores, shingles, and eligible COVID-19 patients
Some medications cannot be prescribed online, including Schedule 8 controlled substances (such as strong opioids and stimulants), medications that require physical examination or blood tests before prescribing, and any medication your doctor considers unsafe to prescribe without an in-person assessment.
How to Get an Online Prescription With Medidoc
The process is simple and takes just a few minutes:
- Book your consultation - choose a convenient time on the Medidoc platform, available 7 days a week
- Speak with your doctor - join a secure video or phone consultation to discuss your symptoms or medication needs
- Receive your eScript - if a prescription is clinically appropriate, your doctor sends it directly to your phone via SMS
- Collect your medication - take your eScript token to any pharmacy in Australia, or order through an online pharmacy for home delivery
The entire process - from booking to receiving your eScript - can take as little as 15 minutes.
Repeat Prescriptions Online
If you are already taking regular medication and need a repeat prescription, telehealth is an ideal option. Your doctor can review your current treatment and issue new repeats without requiring you to visit a clinic in person.
To make the process smooth, have the following ready before your appointment:
- The name and dosage of your current medication
- How long you have been taking it
- The name of the pharmacy you usually use
- Any recent blood test or pathology results (if relevant)
Your doctor may recommend a blood test or follow-up if it has been some time since your last in-person review, as this is part of responsible ongoing care.
Are Online Prescriptions Safe and Legal?
Yes. Online prescriptions issued through a legitimate telehealth platform like Medidoc are fully legal in Australia. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the Medical Board of Australia both recognise telehealth as a valid method of consultation and prescribing.
Key safeguards include:
- All Medidoc doctors are registered medical practitioners
- Prescriptions are only issued when clinically appropriate after a proper consultation
- eScripts are generated through approved prescribing systems
- Patient identity is verified before each consultation
- Full medical records are maintained for every consultation
How Much Does an Online Prescription Cost?
Medidoc consultations are competitively priced and transparent. You pay a flat consultation fee that covers the appointment with your doctor. If a prescription is issued, the eScript is included at no extra charge. You then pay the standard pharmacy price for your medication.
There are no hidden fees, no membership requirements, and no ongoing subscriptions. You only pay when you need a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a prescription without a video call?
In most cases, a video or phone consultation is required before a prescription can be issued. This is a legal and safety requirement to ensure your doctor can properly assess your condition and prescribe appropriately. The consultation is quick and straightforward.
Do I need a Medicare card to get an online prescription?
No. Medidoc services are available to everyone, regardless of Medicare status. However, please note that Medidoc consultations are private (not bulk billed), so a consultation fee applies.
Can I get the morning-after pill prescribed online?
The emergency contraceptive pill is available over the counter at pharmacies without a prescription. However, if you need ongoing contraception advice, a Medidoc doctor can help you find the right option and issue a prescription during a telehealth consultation.
Can I choose which pharmacy to send my prescription to?
With an eScript, you are not locked into any specific pharmacy. The token is sent to your phone and you can present it at any pharmacy in Australia - whether it is your local chemist, a pharmacy in another city, or an online pharmacy that offers home delivery.
What if the doctor decides I don't need a prescription?
Your doctor will only prescribe medication when it is clinically appropriate. If your condition does not require a prescription, they will advise you on alternative treatments, self-care strategies, or recommend further investigation. You will still receive professional medical advice during your consultation.
Can I get a prescription for someone else?
The consultation must be with the person who needs the prescription. However, for children or dependants, a parent or guardian can be present during the appointment. The eScript can also be shared with a carer who can collect the medication on the patient's behalf.
Get Your Prescription Online With Medidoc Today
Skip the waiting room and get the medication you need from the comfort of home. Medidoc's registered doctors are available 7 days a week for fast, convenient telehealth consultations with eScripts sent straight to your phone.
Book your consultation with Medidoc today - quick, easy, and available wherever you are in Australia.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment specific to your situation.