In our fast-paced world where convenience and access are more important than ever and especially in healthcare, there has been a shift in how we access medications. While the importance of pharmacies as brick and mortar stores still exists, online pharmacies are being frequented and providing a modern and up-to-date alternative, with increased convenience and personalized delivery. If you are considering which option to choose, becoming familiar with what the options entail will allow for a better decision-making process when deciding on what to use for your needs. Services like My compounding are showing us what pharmacy care can look like in an online setting.

Accessibility and Convenience

Traditional pharmacies must physically visit the pharmacy, often during their hours of operation, which can be difficult for those with mobility issues, time constraints, or patients who live in far, rural locations.

Online pharmacies are accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Patients can order prescriptions, upload prescriptions, or consult with pharmacists without leaving home. Whether patients have a chronic condition or a prescription for a short-term treatment, the accessibility of online pharmacies is hard to beat.

Range of Services

Typically, pharmacies will stock medications as well as commonly available over-the-counter products. Some may offer limited compounding based on time or available materials. 

In contrast, online pharmacies – especially those that prioritize personalized care – are often willing and able to perform a wider range of services. For example, My compounding offers customized medication solutions for people with unique circumstances. It can change dosage, eliminate allergens, or make different forms (e.g. liquids, creams, etc.) so compounding services can be a valuable service for patients who cannot use standard medications.

Personalization

Most pharmacies by convention dispense prescriptions from mass-produced medication. Community pharmacists may answer questions and give recommendations about these medications, but often there is little room for customizing them.

For something completely different, online compounding services like  My compounding offer customization.  Compounding pharmacies will work with healthcare providers to develop individualized medications authorship exclusively for that patient. This is often helpful for children, seniors, and patients with niche diseases.

Privacy and Discretion

Traditional pharmacies require direct interaction, which some individuals may prefer. However, others may feel uncomfortable, especially when discussing private health issues. 

Online pharmacies provide a private option. Secure websites provide a level of comfort about your personal details being secure and medications arriving in plain packaging. Many individuals with chronic health conditions or in need of niche treatments appreciate this level of privacy.

Safety and Regulation

There are strict regulations for both traditional pharmacies and online pharmacies—but only if they are licensed. The key is to make sure the online pharmacy you use follows regulatory requirements on a national level, adheres to healthcare standards, and employs licensed pharmacists.

My compounding, for instance, abides by all the regulations in place and makes sure each product is produced at a licensed compounding facility using high-quality ingredients that are tested with strict safety protocols.

Final Thoughts

While traditional pharmacy remains a great provider for many people, online pharmacy offers unparalleled convenience, accessibility and customization. Services like My compounding demonstrate how the digital transformation of pharmacy care can provide unique, diverse and individualized care for patients, without risking safety or quality. So whether you like the personal experience offered by a walk-in pharmacy or the adaptable service offered through online means, your best choice depends on your unique healthcare needs.