Online direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical services. Good or bad?

As the heading suggest today I would be discussing ethics related to online direct-to-customer pharmaceutical companies. But before getting into the depth of the discussion lets do a little bit of homework. Business in the field of medicine has witnessed to be the most successful career nowadays. We come across so many news regarding opening of new pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, research institutes etc. Introduction of technology has also give rise to many more fields.

With the access of internet to most of the people the medical companies with the help of the internet is trying to reach to their patients via internet. Introduction of many online direct-to-consumer apps have been introduced. They treat minimal health issues such as hairfall, acne, oral health problems etc. The idea of treating patients online started by providing medicines through online platform. But will the company, who is supposed to give proper instructions regarding the ailments would be responsible if the patient has any other underlying health issues? What if the medications prescribed through online interaction have side effects on the consumer and may prove fatal.! This gives rise to another ethical dilemma whether these online direct-to-consumer companies should be allowed to operate or not? Are we that busy or careless that we cannot visit a doctor just for our own sake? It’s very unethical of these online direct-to-consumer companies to provide such services online. It is making the people more lazy and careless regarding their health. We cannot treat patients, even with minor symtomps online. Medlife, PharmEasy, NetMeds etc. are some of the many companies which treat patients online and prescribe medication too. The physician is hired by the company and a patient online apply for the treatment.

After interaction and talking about his or her illness the physician gives a prescription. Their main motto is to fill and give prescription rather than diagnosis and treatment of the patient. Thus, these companies want to have financial profits by fooling customers. It is very important to have a direct interaction with the patient before prescribing or advising anything to them. People should be reasonable in their doings otherwise they will have to pay for themselves later.!