Understanding the EU Telemedicine Directive for Patients
Get your prescription for any medication online from an EU-licensed doctor. Hi-Doctor provides a €25 online consultation, with a prescription issued in under 24 hours if appropriate. Pickup at any EU pharmacy.
Understanding the EU Telemedicine Directive for Patients
Yes, you can get your medication prescription online through a licensed EU doctor – without the clinic visit. The EU Telemedicine Directive (2011/24/EU) makes cross-border healthcare, including online consultations and prescriptions, accessible to all EU patients. Hi-Doctor connects you with EU-licensed doctors who review your case for just €25. If appropriate, you receive a valid REMPE electronic prescription in under 24 hours, valid at any pharmacy across the EU.
How it works – get your medication prescription in 4 steps
- Fill the online medical questionnaire (2–3 minutes) and pay the €25 consultation fee.
- A licensed EU doctor reviews your case in private. If the doctor determines the treatment is not appropriate, your €25 is refunded automatically – no risk.
- If approved, you receive a REMPE electronic prescription (PDF file) in your Hi-Doctor account and by email within 24 hours.
- Print the PDF or show it on your phone – present it at any pharmacy in the EU to collect the medication.
Who qualifies for the medication
Our EU-licensed doctors individually review every case to determine if the medication is appropriate for you. Generally, eligibility depends on your medical history, current health status, and specific indications for the medication. For weight management medications like GLP-1s, doctors typically look for a Body Mass Index (BMI) above a certain threshold (e.g., 27 kg/m² with co-morbidities or 30 kg/m² without) and an absence of contraindications such as a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2. During your online consultation, you will provide detailed information about your health, allowing the doctor to make an informed decision.
What the medication actually does (and doesn't do)
The medication works by [Explain mechanism of action in simple terms, e.g., 'mimicking a natural hormone that targets areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation, leading to reduced hunger and increased feelings of fullness']. This helps you consume fewer calories and can lead to weight loss. It is designed to be used as part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes diet and exercise. It is not a miracle cure; consistent lifestyle changes are essential for sustainable results. You can expect to see initial effects within weeks, with more significant changes over several months. The medication does not work for everyone, and individual responses vary.
Side effects and when to stop
Like all medications, this medication can cause side effects. Common side effects often include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or constipation, especially when starting treatment or increasing dosage. These generally subside over time. More serious but less common side effects can include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, or kidney issues. It is crucial to read the patient information leaflet provided with your medication. You should stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of an allergic reaction. Your Hi-Doctor will provide guidance on managing side effects and when to discontinue treatment if necessary.
Why Hi-Doctor vs. walking into a clinic
Choosing Hi-Doctor for your medication prescription offers distinct advantages over traditional clinic visits. With Hi-Doctor, speed is paramount: receive your prescription in under 24 hours, compared to weeks for an in-person appointment. The price is transparent and affordable: a flat €25 consultation fee, without the variable and often higher costs of private clinics. Privacy is guaranteed: everything happens securely within our app, avoiding reception desks and waiting rooms. Convenience is key: manage your health from your phone, anywhere, anytime, without city-centre travel. We've proudly served over 50,000 patients, maintaining a 4.8 Trustpilot rating, a testament to our commitment to efficient, patient-focused care.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if the doctor decides I'm not a candidate for the medication?
If the doctor determines the treatment is not appropriate for you, your €25 consultation fee is refunded automatically. You pay nothing if the treatment isn't approved.
Is the REMPE prescription valid outside Spain?
Yes, REMPE is Spain's official private electronic prescription standard. Under EU Directive 2011/24/EU, any EU pharmacy (France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Netherlands, Belgium, etc.) can dispense from it. You receive a downloadable PDF you can print and present at the counter.
How do I actually collect the medication once I have the prescription?
Simply print the PDF prescription or show it on your phone at any EU pharmacy. The pharmacist reads the QR code or digital signature and dispenses your medication.
Is it legal to get the medication online in my country?
Yes, it is legal to obtain your medication via an EU-licensed doctor who issues a valid REMPE prescription, recognised across the EU under cross-border healthcare directives.
How long does the prescription take?
Once you complete your medical questionnaire and the doctor reviews your case, an electronic prescription is issued within 24 hours if deemed appropriate.
Is my data private?
Absolutely. Hi-Doctor is fully RGPD-compliant, ensuring all your personal and medical data is kept private and secure within your auditable in-app chat.
How much does it cost?
The online consultation costs a flat €25. This fee covers the doctor's review of your case and the issuance of a prescription if appropriate. If not, you get your money back.
