If you've never had a telehealth medical consultation before, the idea can feel unfamiliar. What actually happens? Is it as thorough as seeing a doctor in person? Will the doctor really be able to assess me properly over video? This guide walks you through the entire process — from the moment you visit the website to the moment you walk into a pharmacy with your prescription.
The simple version: Complete an online form, pay R700 for your first consult + script, attend a 15-minute video call with a HPCSA-registered doctor, and receive an e-prescription by email within hours — if the doctor confirms you're a suitable candidate. The whole process takes 24–48 hours.
Yes. The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) published guidelines in Booklet 10 that explicitly permit telehealth consultations, provided the consulting doctor:
All of these requirements are met by Metabolic Doc. Telehealth GLP-1 prescriptions are legally and ethically issued when the appropriate clinical assessment has been completed.
Before your consultation, you'll complete a detailed intake form covering your height, weight, medical history, current medications, relevant symptoms, and the reason you're seeking GLP-1 therapy. This information allows the doctor to prepare for your consultation and identify any potential contraindications in advance. It makes the 15-minute consultation far more productive.
⏱ Approx. 10 minutesThe R700 fee covers your initial telehealth consultation (R350) and your first prescription (R350) — if the doctor determines you are clinically suitable. There are no hidden fees at this stage. Your prescription is sent to you regardless of which pharmacy you choose.
⏱ 2 minutesAfter completing the intake form, you'll select a consultation slot that suits your schedule. Consultations are available on weekdays and some weekends, from the comfort of your home, car, office — anywhere private. You'll receive a confirmation email with a secure video call link.
⏱ 1 minute to bookThe doctor will have reviewed your intake form before the call. The 15-minute consultation typically covers: verifying your information, asking follow-up questions about your health history, discussing your weight loss goals and expectations, explaining the medication options and dose schedule, reviewing any contraindications, confirming informed consent, and answering your questions. It's a real, substantive medical consultation — not a rubber stamp.
⏱ 15 minutesIf the doctor approves your treatment, you'll receive a valid electronic prescription (e-script) to your email address, typically within a few hours of the consultation. The e-script is a legally recognised prescription document accepted at all registered South African pharmacies.
⏱ Within hours of consultationPresent your e-script at any registered pharmacy. The pharmacist will dispense the medication, show you the injection pen, and explain storage and administration. If your preferred pharmacy doesn't have stock, call ahead or check with another branch — Ozempic and Mounjaro can sometimes have limited availability at individual pharmacies.
⏱ Same day (if stock available)Every 4 weeks, you'll have a brief renewal consultation to review your progress — weight change, side effects, dose tolerance, and whether a dose increase is appropriate. Renewals are R350 and follow the same video call format. Your updated prescription is sent after each renewal.
⏱ 10–15 minutes per monthThe doctor's clinical decision is final and is made in your best interest. If the doctor determines that GLP-1 therapy is not appropriate for you — due to contraindications, ineligible BMI, or other clinical concerns — they will explain why and suggest appropriate alternatives. Patient safety always comes first.
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