3. Is telehealth safe?

Yes — absolutely.

Your consultation is private, secure, and carried out by a GMC-registered UK GP. Telehealth follows the same clinical standards as an in-person appointment.

If the GP feels you need a physical exam, they'll guide you clearly to the safest next step, whether that's urgent care, A&E, or an in-person GP review. When appropriate, we can also arrange a face-to-face appointment at one of our clinics in Bedford, Luton, or Biggleswade.

Your safety always comes first.

4. What can you treat via video?

A lot more than people expect. Many GP consultations do not require a physical examination, making them ideal for telehealth.

Telehealth is great for:

• Coughs, colds, sore throats
• Rashes, eczema, acne, infections
• Stress, anxiety, sleep issues
• Asthma, diabetes, thyroid reviews
• Medication questions & private prescriptions
• Women's health concerns
• Sick notes & fitness-to-fly certificates
• Test results and general guidance

Common questions we answer:

• "Is this rash concerning?"
• "Do I need antibiotics?"
• "Can you renew my prescription?"
• "I've been feeling anxious, what should I do?"
• "Should I take my child to A&E or wait?"

If the issue doesn't require hands-on examination, telehealth can usually help. If a physical examination is needed, we can arrange a face-to-face appointment at one of our clinics.

5. Does telehealth work for kids?

Absolutely, parents are some of telehealth's most frequent users.

It's perfect for quick reassurance when a child develops sudden symptoms and you're unsure how serious it is.

Telehealth works especially well for children with:

• New rashes
• Fevers that come and go
• Cold & cough symptoms
• Eczema flare-ups
• Mild stomach aches
• Allergies
• Sleep or behaviour concerns

Here's how it works in practice:

It's Sunday morning and your daughter wakes up with a blotchy rash across her chest. You're not sure if it's serious, but you don't want to wait until Monday or spend hours in A&E if it's nothing urgent.

Within two hours, you're on a video call with a GP from your sofa. Your daughter shows the rash on camera, the GP asks a few questions, and within minutes you have a clear explanation, advice on what to watch for, and complete peace of mind.

No long waits, no panic, just clear answers from home.

Our 20-minute consultations (with double appointments available if needed) give parents enough time to ask everything they're worried about.

6. When is telehealth not the right choice?

In-person care is needed for:

• Chest pain or breathing difficulty
• Severe abdominal pain
• New lumps or significant swelling
• Injuries requiring physical examination
• Heart or lung checks
• Wound care, vaccinations, or procedures

If your symptoms suggest something urgent, your GP will direct you clearly and quickly. For conditions requiring a physical examination that aren't urgent, we can arrange a face-to-face appointment at one of our clinics in Bedford, Luton, or Biggleswade.

7. How do prescriptions work?

Very simply.

When clinically appropriate, your GP can send a private electronic prescription directly to your chosen UK pharmacy. Many are ready the same day, often within hours.

Antibiotics and controlled medications are prescribed only when clinically appropriate, in line with national guidance.

8. What happens in a telehealth appointment?

Before

• Book online in minutes
• Choose video or telephone
• Select a specific doctor or book the next available appointment
• Complete a short medical questionnaire
• Same-day slots usually available within 2–4 hours

What you need: Any smartphone, tablet, or computer with camera/microphone. No app download required, appointments happen in your browser. Poor internet? No problem, switch to telephone during booking.

During

• Join the video link or answer the call
• Discuss symptoms in detail (20 minutes, double appointments available if needed)
• Show visible symptoms if relevant
• Ask any questions - the pace is unhurried

After

• Receive prescriptions, referrals or advice where clinically appropriate
• Get a written summary via email
• Prescription ready at pharmacy (when issued)
• Follow-up support where needed

It feels calm, clear, and helpful.

9. Is £75 worth it?

For many people, yes, and here's why:

What you get:

• Same-day access (typically 2-4 hours)
• Longer appointment times (20 minutes, double appointments available if needed)
• Clear answers and a personalised plan
• Prescriptions & referrals handled promptly where clinically appropriate
• No travel, waiting rooms, or time off work
• Convenient for busy families
• Option to book with a specific doctor
• Access to face-to-face appointments when needed

For parents especially, the peace of mind is priceless.

10. Will my regular GP know about this appointment?

You're in control of your medical information.

After your consultation, you'll receive a summary that you can share with your NHS GP if you wish. While we don't automatically access NHS records, you can provide relevant medical history during booking to help your Ocimum GP give you the best care.

Your consultation notes are stored securely in your patient portal and remain completely confidential unless you choose to share them.

11. What if I need follow-up care?

We're here beyond your first appointment.

If your symptoms don't improve or you have questions after your consultation:

• Contact us for follow-up guidance
• Book another appointment if needed
• Book with the same GP for continuity of care (subject to availability)
• Arrange a face-to-face appointment if a physical examination is needed

Your GP will always explain what to expect and when to seek further care if symptoms change.

12. Still not sure if telehealth is right for you?

Try this quick test:

✓ Need medical advice within hours, not weeks? ✓ Can your symptoms be explained or shown on video? ✓ Want a longer, unhurried consultation? ✓ Need a prescription or referral quickly?

If you answered yes to two or more, telehealth is likely a great fit.

Still unsure? Call or email us, we're happy to answer questions before you book. No pressure, no obligation.

Ready to Speak to a GP Today?

Book Your Appointment — Same-Day Slots Available

✓ 20-minute consultation (double appointments available if needed) ✓ Prescriptions to your pharmacy where clinically appropriate ✓ Typically within 2–4 hours ✓ Evening and weekend appointments ✓ Option to book with a specific doctor ✓ Face-to-face appointments available in Bedford, Luton, and Biggleswade ✓ Price: £75

Your health. Your schedule. Your choice.

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Ocimum provides secure virtual GP appointments with GMC-registered UK doctors. All consultations are private, confidential, and follow the same clinical standards as in-person care. Face-to-face appointments are also available at our clinics in Bedford, Luton, and Biggleswade, contact us on our registered phone number to arrange an in-person consultation.