For those that aren’t aware, online pharmacies or mail order pharmacies act very similarly to how one would online shop for clothes. The individuals in need of medicine can get their supplies through online dispensaries and have them delivered to their homes.
The online pharmacy industry is a relatively new one, but has boomed as the Internet has become more accessible. According to iHealthcareAnalyst, the global online pharmacy market is set to reach a market value of $191.27 billion by 2027 at a CAGR of 16.5%.
However, the availability of the Internet isn’t the only factor to consider. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the key drivers from the consumer’s side that have and will continue to support this growth.
There’s more privacy involved
A lot of people don’t want to be seen at the pharmacy. Not everyone is comfortable with strangers (or worse, neighbours) eavesdropping on their conversations with their pharmacists about health-related issues, especially when they have something to do with sexual and reproductive function such as viagra and contraceptive pills.
That’s completely understandable, and this is where online pharmacies have the upper edge. No one else except you and the dispenser needs to know what you’re getting. Online dispensaries that focus on a niche market, such as Rex MD have become more popular for men who are looking for erectile dysfunction solutions and male pattern baldness.
Convenience
A big problem with retail pharmacies is that the medications you need aren’t always in stock. So if you can wait, you’ll need to make an order. Where online pharmacies shine is that they’ll always have stock and can deliver them right to your doorstep. However, you will still need to do some pharmacy hunting around town if the medication you need is urgent.
This, when combined with the ability to get your medicines replenished automatically without having to reproduce your prescription time and time again really helps consumers make their minds with regards to how they shop.
In Canada, the demand for online pharmacies has increased dramatically due to the cold weather conditions and poor road infrastructure in rural areas, making it difficult for people to access their medications from physical pharmacies. Finding the best online Canadian pharmacy is also easy. All you need to do is make a quick search and read reviews.
Another pointer to online pharmacies is that many now have certified pharmacists and doctors available on board for consultation during working and non-working hours. For those that hate lining up at the doctor’s office, this may be music to your ears. Obviously, this is a great help when it comes to finding the right medicine for your needs.
Affordability
People have reported online pharmacies to be much cheaper than traditional retail pharmacies. As some online pharmacies work with your health plan, you’re able to get your medication at a cheaper rate as your insurer can purchase them in bulk.
While the cost savings may not feel like much, those that rely on daily medication such as those with heart conditions or older people in general will benefit the most. Online pharmacies may even offer packages in which you can copay for two months to get an extra month’s worth of supplies.
However, the affordability aspect doesn’t guarantee quality. Many rogue pharmacies attract buyers with ridiculously low prices without passing through regulatory bodies. They may not even need a prescription when it’s required everywhere else. This isn’t only dangerous, it’s illegal too.
While online pharmacies have a lot of benefits, be sure that you’re educated on how to find a reputable online pharmacy before buying from one!
Published by HOLR Magazine.