50 Conditions You Can Treat With an Online GP: When Digital Doctors Beat the Waiting Room

"Can I really get this treated online?"

I hear this question dozens of times daily from patients surprised by what modern telemedicine can handle.

Last week alone, I successfully treated a lawyer's migraine during her lunch break, diagnosed a teacher's shingles via video call, and managed a CEO's hypertension review between his meetings.

None of them lost a day of work. None sat in waiting rooms. All received the same quality care they'd get in person.

Yet millions still struggle to get GP appointments, unaware that 70% of primary care conditions can be effectively managed online.

After conducting over 15,000 online consultations, I've compiled this definitive guide to what we can treat digitally – and what still needs face-to-face care.

The New Reality of Digital Diagnosis

Technology has transformed what's possible in remote medicine.

High-resolution cameras show skin conditions better than in-person examination.

Digital stethoscopes transmit heart sounds clearly.

Home monitoring devices provide real-time vital signs.

Detailed histories often matter more than physical examination.

Pattern recognition works excellently through screens.

The key is knowing which conditions suit this approach.

Skin Conditions: The Perfect Online Patients

Dermatology was made for telemedicine.

Photographs often show more detail than naked eye examination.

Lighting can be optimised.

Zoom functions reveal subtle changes.

Progress tracking becomes simple with photos.

Conditions We Excel At

Acne:

• Severity assessment clear in photos

• Treatment protocols well-established

• Progress monitoring straightforward

• Prescription medications available

• Typical consultation: 10 minutes

Eczema/Dermatitis:

• Visual diagnosis reliable

• Trigger identification through history

• Topical treatments prescribed

• Antihistamines if needed

• Follow-up photos track improvement

Psoriasis:

• Characteristic appearance identifiable

• Severity scoring possible remotely

• Systemic treatments initiated if appropriate

• Regular monitoring feasible

• Referrals arranged when needed

Rosacea:

• Facial flushing visible on video

• Triggers discussed thoroughly

• Prescription treatments available

• Lifestyle advice provided

• Long-term management planned

Fungal Infections:

• Athlete's foot obvious visually

• Ringworm patterns characteristic

• Nail fungus clear in photos

• Antifungal prescriptions issued

• Prevention advice given

Hair Loss:

• Pattern assessment possible

• Historical photos helpful

• Blood tests arranged

• Medications prescribed

• Specialist referrals if needed

Rashes:

• Most identifiable remotely

• Viral rashes characteristic

• Allergic reactions visible

• Emergency signs identified

• Treatment started promptly

When Skin Needs In-Person

Suspicious moles requiring dermoscopy.

Possible skin cancer lesions.

Deep infections or abscesses.

Spreading cellulitis.

Severe burns.

Unknown rashes with fever.

Mental Health: Breaking Down Barriers

Online consultations remove obstacles to mental health treatment.

Privacy from home encourages honesty.

No waiting room anxiety.

Easier for social anxiety sufferers.

Effectively Managed Online

Anxiety Disorders:

• GAD assessment questionnaires

• Panic disorder diagnosis

• Medication initiation safe

• CBT referrals arranged

• Regular monitoring easy

Depression:

• PHQ-9 scoring standard

• Risk assessment conducted

• Antidepressants prescribed

• Therapy coordination

• Follow-up crucial

Stress and Burnout:

• Work-related stress common

• Sick notes issued

• Stress management techniques

• Medication if appropriate

• Occupational health liaisons

Insomnia:

• Sleep hygiene education

• Sleep diary review

• Medications prescribed carefully

• Underlying causes explored

• Specialist referrals if complex

ADHD Management:

• Existing diagnosis continued

• Non-stimulant medications

• Monitoring organised

• Workplace letters provided

• Shared care agreements

Mental Health Red Flags for A&E

Active suicidal ideation.

Psychotic symptoms.

Severe self-harm.

Mania or hypomania.

Catatonia.

Severe eating disorder complications.

Women's Health: Discrete and Convenient

Privacy and convenience make online perfect for many women's health issues.

Successfully Treated Online

Contraception:

• Pill prescriptions renewed

• New pills started (with BP check)

• Emergency contraception

• Injection reminders

• Ring/patch prescriptions

UTIs (Uncomplicated):

• Classic symptoms diagnosed

• Antibiotics prescribed

• Prevention advice

• Test kits sent if needed

• Follow-up if not resolving

Thrush:

• Symptoms assessment

• Antifungal treatment

• Recurrence prevention

• Partner treatment

• Testing if recurrent

Menopause Management:

• HRT prescriptions

• Dose adjustments

• Side effect management

• Alternative treatments

• Blood test monitoring

Period Problems:

• Heavy bleeding assessment

• Pain management

• Hormone treatments

• Investigation arrangement

• Anaemia screening

Menstrual Migraines:

• Pattern identification

• Preventive treatments

• Acute medications

• Hormone stabilisation

• Specialist referrals

PCOS Management:

• Medication reviews

• Symptom control

• Fertility planning

• Metabolic monitoring

• Lifestyle support

Needs Physical Examination

Pregnancy complications.

Acute pelvic pain.

Abnormal bleeding in pregnancy.

Breast lumps.

Severe endometriosis.

Post-menopausal bleeding.

Men's Health: Private and Effective

Men particularly value online consultation privacy.

Conditions Managed Well

Erectile Dysfunction:

• Thorough assessment

• Cardiovascular screening

• PDE5 inhibitors prescribed

• Underlying causes explored

• Lifestyle advice crucial

Premature Ejaculation:

• Behavioural techniques taught

• Medications available

• Relationship impact discussed

• Combination approaches

• Success rates high

Low Testosterone Symptoms:

• Symptom evaluation

• Blood tests arranged

• Results interpretation

• Treatment options discussed

• Monitoring planned

Prostatitis:

• Symptom assessment

• Antibiotics if bacterial

• Pain management

• Alpha-blockers prescribed

• Follow-up essential

Hair Loss:

• Pattern assessment

• Finasteride prescribed

• Minoxidil recommended

• Progress monitoring

• Realistic expectations set

Requires Examination

Testicular lumps.

Acute testicular pain.

Blood in semen.

Penile discharge.

Suspected hernias.

Digestive Issues: Common and Treatable

Many GI problems suit online consultation perfectly.

Managed Effectively Online

Acid Reflux/GERD:

• Symptom scoring

• PPI prescriptions

• Lifestyle modifications

• H2 blockers alternative

• Red flags identified

IBS Management:

• Rome criteria assessment

• Symptom pattern analysis

• Medications prescribed

• FODMAP guidance

• Stress management

Constipation:

• Cause evaluation

• Laxatives prescribed

• Diet advice

• Red flags checked

• Follow-up planned

Haemorrhoids:

• Symptom assessment

• Topical treatments

• Suppositories prescribed

• Surgery referrals

• Prevention advice

Food Intolerances:

• Symptom diary review

• Elimination diet planning

• Testing arrangement

• Nutritionist referrals

• Coeliac screening

Needs Urgent Assessment

Severe abdominal pain.

Blood in stool (significant).

Persistent vomiting.

Suspected appendicitis.

Bowel obstruction signs.

Severe dehydration.

Respiratory Conditions: Breathing Easy Online

Many chest problems diagnosed through history alone.

Suitable for Online

Asthma Reviews:

• Control assessment

• Inhaler technique (video)

• Prescription adjustments

• Action plans updated

• Peak flow monitoring

COPD Management:

• Stable COPD reviews

• Medication optimisation

• Exacerbation plans

• Smoking cessation

• Pulmonary rehab referrals

Chronic Cough:

• Duration assessment

• Red flags excluded

• Trial treatments

• Investigations arranged

• Specialist referrals

Hay Fever:

• Symptom severity scoring

• Antihistamines prescribed

• Nasal sprays

• Eye drops

• Immunotherapy referrals

Mild Chest Infections:

• Symptom evaluation

• Antibiotics if bacterial

• Safety netting

• Follow-up arranged

• Chest X-ray if needed

Needs Emergency Care

Severe breathlessness.

Chest pain with breathing.

Coughing blood.

Blue lips/fingers.

Confusion with infection.

Musculoskeletal: Movement Without Moving

Many joint and muscle problems managed remotely.

Online Appropriate

Back Pain (Non-acute):

• Red flags excluded

• Pain relief prescribed

• Physiotherapy referrals

• Work modifications

• Exercise programmes

Arthritis Management:

• Pain control

• Anti-inflammatories

• Disease-modifying drugs monitored

• Joint injections arranged

• Rheumatology referrals

Tennis/Golfer's Elbow:

• Diagnosis through history

• NSAIDs prescribed

• Steroid injections arranged

• Physiotherapy

• Bracing advice

Carpal Tunnel:

• Symptom assessment

• Night splints recommended

• Nerve studies arranged

• Injections organised

• Surgery referrals

Plantar Fasciitis:

• Classic presentation

• Anti-inflammatories

• Stretching programmes

• Orthotics discussion

• Injection arrangement

Needs Physical Assessment

Suspected fractures.

Joint swelling/heat.

Numbness/weakness.

Cauda equina symptoms.

Severe trauma.

Infections: Quick Treatment Access

Many infections safely treated online.

Managed Remotely

Sinusitis:

• Symptom duration key

• Antibiotics if bacterial

• Decongestants

• Pain relief

• Red flags checked

Tonsillitis:

• Centor criteria used

• Photos helpful

• Antibiotics prescribed

• Pain management

• Hospital if severe

Ear Infections:

• History diagnostic

• Otitis media treatment

• Otitis externa drops

• Pain relief

• Follow-up if needed

Conjunctivitis:

• Photos diagnostic

• Antibiotic drops

• Hygiene advice

• Work/school guidance

• Contact lens advice

Impetigo:

• Characteristic appearance

• Topical/oral antibiotics

• Hygiene measures

• School exclusion advice

• Family treatment

Needs Immediate Care

Meningitis symptoms.

Sepsis signs.

Severe cellulitis.

Abscess needing drainage.

Post-operative infections.

Chronic Disease Management

Stable chronic conditions perfect for online monitoring.

Excellent Online Management

Hypertension:

• Home monitoring review

• Medication adjustments

• Annual bloods arranged

• Lifestyle support

• Target setting

Type 2 Diabetes:

• HbA1c monitoring

• Medication reviews

• Dose adjustments

• Complication screening

• Diet support

High Cholesterol:

• Results review

• Statin prescriptions

• Dose optimisation

• Side effect management

• Lifestyle advice

Thyroid Disorders:

• Blood test review

• Dose adjustments

• Symptom monitoring

• Annual checks

• Specialist referrals

Needs Face-to-Face

Diabetic foot problems.

Chest pain.

Heart failure decompensation.

Severe hypertension.

Diabetic emergencies.

Lifestyle Medicine

Preventive care excels online.

Perfectly Suited

Weight Management:

• BMI assessment

• Medication prescriptions

• Diet planning

• Exercise programmes

• Bariatric referrals

Smoking Cessation:

• Readiness assessment

• NRT prescriptions

• Varenicline/bupropion

• Support programmes

• Follow-up crucial

Alcohol Reduction:

• AUDIT screening

• Brief interventions

• Medication support

• Service referrals

• Liver monitoring

Travel Health:

• Vaccination advice

• Anti-malarials

• Travel kits

• Documentation

• Health insurance letters

Health Screening:

• Results interpretation

• Risk calculations

• Prevention planning

• Screening arrangements

• Lifestyle modifications

The Online Consultation Advantage

Beyond convenience, online offers unique benefits.

For Patients

No travel time or costs.

No waiting room infections.

Flexible scheduling.

Privacy at home.

Better documentation.

Easy follow-up.

Photo progress tracking.

Family can join calls.

For Conditions

Detailed history taking.

Photographic evidence.

Home monitoring integration.

Reduced white coat syndrome.

Natural environment assessment.

Better compliance.

Easier regular monitoring.

Red Flags: When to Skip Online

Some symptoms always need immediate physical care.

A&E Now

Chest pain.

Stroke symptoms.

Severe breathlessness.

Major trauma.

Severe allergic reactions.

Confusion/reduced consciousness.

Severe bleeding.

Suspected overdose.

Urgent GP (Same Day)

Sudden vision changes.

Severe headache (worst ever).

Difficulty swallowing.

Persistent vomiting.

High fever in children.

Unexplained weight loss.

Maximising Your Online Consultation

Preparation Tips

List all symptoms chronologically.

Note what makes things better/worse.

Have medications ready.

Take clear photos beforehand.

Check blood pressure if relevant.

Write questions down.

Ensure good lighting/camera.

Find quiet, private space.

During Consultation

Be completely honest.

Don't minimise symptoms.

Ask about uncertainties.

Request clarification.

Discuss all concerns.

Mention previous treatments.

Share relevant history.

After Consultation

Follow instructions exactly.

Complete prescribed courses.

Attend follow-ups.

Monitor progress.

Report side effects.

Contact if worsening.

Update regular GP.

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

Online consultations offer remarkable value.

Direct Costs

Consultation: £20-125

Prescription fee: £10-15

Medication: Varies

Total typical: £50-150

Hidden Savings

Travel: £5-20 saved

Parking: £5-15 saved

Time off work: £50-200 saved

Childcare: £20-50 saved

Total savings: £80-285

Time Savings

Travel: 30-60 minutes

Waiting: 20-40 minutes

Consultation: Same duration

Total saved: 50-100 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can online GPs prescribe everything?

Almost everything except controlled drugs initially. All standard medications available. Some restrictions for safety. Controlled substances need special protocols. Most patient needs covered.

How do online GPs examine me?

Visual examination via camera. Guided self-examination. Home monitoring devices. Symptom patterns. Historical information. Most diagnoses don't need touch.

Is online diagnosis accurate?

Studies show 88% concordance with in-person. Some conditions diagnosed better online. Photo documentation helps. Careful history crucial. Safety-netting essential.

What about blood tests?

Arranged at local centres. Results reviewed online. Home testing kits available. Interpretation provided. Follow-up organised.

Can children be treated online?

Yes, with parental consent. Many paediatric conditions suitable. Parents can assist examination. School avoidance reduced. Familiar environment helps.

Are online consultations confidential?

Completely confidential. Encrypted platforms. GDPR compliant. No different from in-person. Records equally protected.

Will antibiotics be prescribed?

When clinically appropriate. Guidelines followed strictly. Antimicrobial stewardship maintained. Not prescribed "just in case." Safety-netting provided.

Can I get referrals?

Yes, to all specialties. NHS and private. Urgent and routine. Letters provided. Direct booking sometimes possible.

What if I need examining later?

Arranged when necessary. Flexible approach. Online first often appropriate. Face-to-face follow-up available. Best of both worlds.

Do I need technology skills?

Basic smartphone use sufficient. Support available. Family can help. Phone consultations alternative. No one excluded.

The future of primary care is hybrid – online for convenience and efficiency, in-person when physical examination adds value.

Seventy percent of GP consultations can happen effectively online.

That's millions of appointments made accessible, thousands of work days saved, and countless patients treated faster.

Your symptoms don't always need a waiting room.

Often, they just need a good doctor with modern tools.

Need medical attention today? The Online GP provides instant access to experienced UK doctors for 50+ conditions. Video consultations from £125 with prescriptions, sick notes, and referrals available immediately. Open 7 days, 8am-10pm. WhatsApp 07399323620 or book online. Your health doesn't have to wait.