Both types of sites provide over the counter medications that are delivered through the mail. The sites usually require the patient to submit a doctor s written prescription by fax and often check the validity of the prescription directly with the prescribing health professional. Other sites are considerably more relaxed and may sell prescriptions drugs without requiring a written prescription and may sell drugs that are not approved or may even be illegal. Many of these sites also offer other non-prescription medications or products for the consumer often at a discount. Medical Advice and Diagnosis Increasingly, e-health Web sites targeting consumers are providing more than generic content.
Some sites provide basic answers to specific questions submitted by visitors to the sites.
These are often a part of a larger consumer health information site. Simple questions are often answered free but there is a charge associated with providing medical diagnosis and treatment. Such services are not covered by insurance. Some e-health sites are designed to provide specific patient information and services for a closed set of patients. The site provides these services under contract with an insurance plan or employer for covered individuals.