Getting Prescriptions Through Arlo
Can Arlo prescribe antibiotics or inhalers?: What Ontario parents need to know about virtual prescriptions
Yes, Arlo providers can prescribe both antibiotics and inhalers when clinically appropriate. Ontario's telemedicine regulations allow licensed healthcare providers to prescribe most medications through virtual consultations, including common treatments your child might need.
How it works
When you text Arlo about your child's symptoms, our healthcare providers conduct a thorough virtual assessment. They'll ask detailed questions about your child's condition, review any photos you share, and consider their medical history. If they determine that an antibiotic for a bacterial infection or an inhaler for asthma management is needed, they can send the prescription directly to your preferred pharmacy.
The process is straightforward. After your consultation, you'll receive a message confirming any prescriptions sent. Most Ontario pharmacies can fill virtual prescriptions just like in-person ones, and you can pick up the medication within a few hours.
What you'll need
- Your child's health card number
- Preferred pharmacy location
- Current medication list (if any)
- Clear description of symptoms
When prescriptions are appropriate
Arlo providers prescribe antibiotics when there's clear evidence of a bacterial infection that requires treatment, such as strep throat, ear infections, or urinary tract infections. They won't prescribe antibiotics for viral infections like common colds, since antibiotics don't work against viruses.
For inhalers, providers can prescribe rescue inhalers for asthma flare-ups or maintenance inhalers for ongoing asthma management. They can also provide action plans to help you manage your child's asthma at home.
Common questions
Can Arlo prescribe controlled substances? Arlo follows Health Canada and Ontario guidelines for controlled medications. Some medications may require an in-person assessment, and our providers will let you know if that's the case.
What if my pharmacy doesn't receive the prescription? Occasionally there are technical delays. If your prescription doesn't arrive within a few hours, text back and we'll resend it or provide a backup solution.
Do I need to see our family doctor too? For acute issues that Arlo treats, you typically don't need a follow-up unless symptoms worsen or don't improve as expected. For ongoing conditions like asthma, maintaining regular check-ups with your family doctor is still important.
The takeaway
Getting the right medication for your child shouldn't mean waiting days for an appointment. Arlo's virtual prescribing makes treatment accessible when your family needs it most.
You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!
References
- [Virtual Care in Ontario](https://www.ontario.ca/page/virtual-care-ontario)
- [College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario: Telemedicine Guidelines](https://www.cpso.on.ca/en/Physicians/Policies-Guidance/Policies/Telemedicine)
- [Ontario Telemedicine Network](https://otn.ca/)