How Doctors Review Online Medical Requests

When you submit a request for a medical certificate or prescription online, a real doctor reviews your case. There's no automation, no AI making decisions, no rubber stamps. Here's what actually happens behind the scenes.

Key Takeaways

• Every request is reviewed by an AHPRA-registered doctor
• Doctors make independent clinical decisions based on the information you provide
• Requests can be approved, declined, or require follow-up questions

The Review Process

When your request comes in, a doctor receives it in their queue. They review everything you've submitted: your symptoms, medical history, what you're requesting, and any additional information. This is active clinical work — the doctor is assessing your situation just as they would in person.

The doctor considers whether your request is clinically appropriate. For a medical certificate, they're assessing whether your described symptoms genuinely make you unfit for work. For a prescription, they're evaluating whether the medication is safe and appropriate for your situation.

What Doctors Look For

• Whether your symptoms match what you're requesting
• Your medical history and any relevant conditions
• Whether telehealth is appropriate for your situation
• Any red flags suggesting you need in-person care
• Whether the request duration or dosage is reasonable

When Doctors Ask Follow-Up Questions

If the doctor needs more information, they'll contact you. This isn't a rejection — it's good medicine. They might need to clarify symptoms, understand your medication history better, or ask about something you mentioned. Responding promptly and thoroughly helps them make an informed decision.

Why Requests Get Declined

• The condition needs physical examination
• The medication isn't appropriate for telehealth prescribing
• The request doesn't match the described symptoms
• Safety concerns require in-person assessment
• The duration or quantity requested isn't clinically justified

A declined request isn't personal — it means the doctor believes you'd be better served by in-person care or that your specific request isn't appropriate. They'll explain why and suggest next steps.

How InstantMed Works

At InstantMed, every request goes to an AHPRA-registered doctor for review. We don't use automated approvals or AI decision-making for clinical matters. Doctors make independent judgments based on what you've told them and their clinical expertise.

Your Role in the Process

• Providing accurate, complete information
• Being honest about your symptoms and history
• Responding promptly to any follow-up questions
• Having realistic expectations about what telehealth can provide
• Accepting if the doctor recommends in-person care instead