5 Everyday Problems You Can (and Should) Treat With Online Doctors

For all of us juggling busy lives across Australia, fitting in a doctor’s appointment can sometimes feel harder than finding time for a holiday. Between work, study, social life, fitness goals, and everything in between, carving out space in your calendar to sit in a waiting room just doesn’t always happen.

Luckily, healthcare is catching up with the modern lifestyle. Online doctors are becoming a go-to solution for many everyday health concerns, offering convenience, speed, and real cost savings. But like anything, it’s important to know when it’s appropriate to get help online — and when it’s time to book that face-to-face appointment with your trusted GP.

Today, we’ll break down five everyday problems you can (and should!) treat online, explore the importance of maintaining a relationship with your local GP, and look at how online healthcare can complement in-person care — not replace it. We’ll also share some options for online doctor services in Australia and why more people are choosing platforms like Medmate to fit into their health care routines.

Simple Infections (UTIs, Thrush, Cold Sores)

If you’ve ever experienced a urinary tract infection (UTI), you know fast treatment is crucial. These common issues are easily recognisable, and if you’ve had them before, you’ll know the symptoms immediately.

With online doctors, you can explain your symptoms, get a prescription for antibiotics if appropriate, and start treatment the same day — no need to wait days for an in-person appointment.

Cold sores are another quick fix online: doctors can prescribe antivirals early to help shorten the outbreak.

When to see your GP instead:

• If infections keep recurring
• If symptoms are unusual or severe
• If treatment isn’t working

Repeat Prescriptions (The Easy Way)

Many young women take regular medications — from contraceptives to acne treatments to mental health prescriptions. In these cases, it often feels unnecessary (and expensive) to book an entire appointment just to renew a script you’ve been on for months or years.

Online doctor services can safely review your medication history and provide repeat prescriptions if it’s appropriate, saving you time and money. Some platforms even deliver the medications straight to your door!

When to see your GP instead:

• If you’re starting a new medication
• If you’re experiencing new side effects
• If your health situation has changed

Mental Health Support (The First Step)

Mental health is just as important as physical health — and it’s an area where online doctors can be really powerful, especially for taking that crucial first step when asking for help feels overwhelming.

Online doctors can offer mental health care plans, referrals to psychologists, or even safe, initial medication options when needed. In the privacy of your own home, reaching out can feel a lot less intimidating.

When to see your GP instead:

• If your mental health is complex or involves risk of self-harm
• If you need long-term, ongoing mental health support and management
• If a comprehensive mental health assessment is required

Sexual Health (Private, Fast, Discreet)

Getting tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is something every sexually active person should do regularly — but let’s be honest, it can feel awkward. Online doctors offer confidential consultations and can organise pathology forms for STI testing at local labs. Some platforms even allow complete testing by mail, no clinic visit needed.

Similarly, online consultations for emergency contraception (“morning after pill”) can be a lifesaver when time matters most.

When to see your GP instead:

• If you have concerning symptoms needing a physical examination
• If you need a pap smear, HPV vaccine or other preventative care

Medical Certificates (When You Need Time Off, Fast)

Whether you’re battling a nasty cold, managing period pain, or just needing a mental health day, sometimes you simply need a medical certificate to give to work, uni, or a childcare provider.

Online doctors can assess your situation via a simple consultation and issue a valid medical certificate quickly —emailed to you the same day. It’s a stress-free way to get what you need without leaving your bed.

When to see your GP instead:

• If your illness is serious, prolonged, or requires more detailed medical management
• If your workplace or university requests a face-to-face examination
• If you need a long-term fitness-for-work assessment

The Importance of a Local GP

While online doctors are amazing for many situations, they should never fully replace your local GP. A good relationship with a GP who knows your personal health history is absolutely essential, especially for managing:

• Complex or chronic conditions
• Preventative health checks (like cervical screening, breast checks, and vaccinations)
• Ongoing mental health support
• Specialist referrals
• Pregnancy planning and prenatal care

Your GP is your health “home base” — someone who sees the big picture.

How Online Doctors and GPs Work Together

Think of an online doctor like your “on-call helper” — they’re there when:

• Your GP isn’t available (after hours, weekends, holidays)
• You’re travelling
• You can’t take time off work or study
• You need something simple sorted fast

By incorporating an online doctor into your health care team, you get flexibility without sacrificing continuity. When used wisely, it’s the perfect balance between modern convenience and traditional care.

And let’s be honest: the cost savings are huge.
In-person GP visits can cost anywhere from $80 to $120 without a bulk billing option — and even with Medicare rebates, you’re often out of pocket.
Online consults?
Many start at around $20-$40, depending on the service — sometimes even less for simple prescription requests.

Online Doctor Options in Australia

✅ Medmate — A medically-led, caring team available 365 days a year. Known for their compassionate care, Medmate offers fast consultations, affordable prices (starting at $19.90), and even home medication delivery. They’re a standout choice if you want the reassurance of dealing with a doctor-led service, not just a chatbot.

Final Thoughts

Healthcare should fit into your life — not the other way around.
Online doctors have revolutionised the way young Australian women manage their health, offering fast, affordable help for common everyday problems.

Used smartly, they save you time, money, and stress — without replacing the important role your local GP plays in your long-term wellbeing.

Tip: Save your favourite online doctor platform (like Medmate) to your phone now. That way, next time you need quick help, it’s just a tap away.

Stay healthy, stay empowered, and remember: caring for yourself is always worth the time. 💕