Pharmacies, At-Home Testing, and Tele-Consultations
Beyond Doctors, Hospitals, and Insurance
For various reasons – lack of insurance, high deductibles, convenience, or simply a preference for self-management – many individuals seek healthcare solutions outside of traditional doctor’s offices, hospitals, and insurance networks. This guide explores three prominent alternatives: Pharmacies, At-Home Blood Tests, Screenings, and Examinations, and Tele-consultations (no insurance/doctor focus). We’ll compare these options for first contact with health issues, managing chronic conditions, and preventative checkups, helping you understand when they might be suitable and their limitations.
Understanding the Alternatives
-
Pharmacies: Pharmacies have evolved beyond simply dispensing prescriptions. Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals readily accessible in communities. They offer over-the-counter (OTC) medications, health advice, vaccinations, and sometimes basic health screenings. They are often the first and most accessible point of contact for many health concerns.
-
At-Home Blood Tests, Screenings, and Examinations (DTC Testing): Direct-to-consumer (DTC) testing companies allow individuals to order various health tests and screenings online, often without a doctor’s prescription. These can range from blood tests for cholesterol and vitamin levels to genetic screenings and STI tests, conducted in the privacy of your home.
-
Tele-consultations (No Insurance/Doctor Focus): A growing segment of telehealth services specifically targets individuals without traditional insurance or a regular doctor. These platforms often offer affordable consultations via phone or video, focusing on providing basic medical advice, prescription refills for certain conditions, and addressing straightforward health concerns.
Comparing Healthcare Choices
Let’s examine how these three alternatives stack up for different healthcare needs:
A) First Contact (Initial Health Issue)
Pharmacies:
- Typical Scenarios: Minor ailments (colds, coughs, allergies, minor pain, skin rashes, digestive upset), urgent medication refills, quick health advice.
- Perceived Advantages: Accessibility & Convenience: Widely available, often open extended hours, no appointment needed. Cost-Effective for Minor Issues: OTC medications often cheaper than doctor visits and prescriptions. Immediate Advice: Pharmacist readily available for guidance on OTC options and minor health questions.
- Perceived Disadvantages & Limitations: Limited Scope: Pharmacists cannot diagnose or treat complex conditions. OTC Limitations: OTC medications have limitations and may not be suitable for all conditions. Lack of Physical Exam: Cannot conduct physical examinations necessary for some diagnoses. No Prescription for many medications.
- Appropriateness Rating (1-5, 5=High): 3-4 for minor, self-treatable conditions. 2-3 for urgent medication needs. 1-2 for undiagnosed or potentially serious symptoms.
At-Home Blood Tests, Screenings & Examinations (DTC):
- Typical Scenarios: Initial curiosity about health status, general wellness checks, specific concerns (e.g., STI testing, vitamin deficiencies) that are not acutely urgent, desire for private testing.
- Perceived Advantages: Privacy & Convenience: Testing from home, discreet results. Direct Access to Information: Gain health data without doctor visit requirement. Potentially Lower Initial Cost (Test Only): May seem cheaper upfront than a doctor visit if just seeking information.
- Perceived Disadvantages & Limitations: Lack of Context & Interpretation: Test results require self-interpretation and may cause anxiety if not understood. Accuracy Concerns: Accuracy and reliability of some DTC tests may vary. No Follow-Up Care Provided: DTC companies typically do not provide ongoing care or treatment. Delayed Results: Results may take days to weeks, delaying timely intervention if needed.
- Appropriateness Rating (1-5, 5=High): 2-3 for general wellness checks or discreet STI testing. 1-2 for acute symptoms requiring prompt medical evaluation. 1 for conditions needing professional interpretation of complex lab results or follow-up care.
Tele-consultations (No Insurance/Doctor Focus):
- Typical Scenarios: Simple, non-urgent health concerns (e.g., cold/flu symptoms, rash descriptions, medication refills for stable conditions), when unable to access in-person care quickly, seeking affordable advice.
- Affordability: Often lower consultation fees than in-person doctor visits. Convenience: Access care from home, no travel required. Quicker Access: May have shorter wait times than traditional appointments.
- Perceived Disadvantages & Limitations: Limited Physical Exam: Cannot perform physical examinations crucial for many diagnoses. Scope of Care Limited: Typically geared towards basic or uncomplicated issues. Continuity of Care: Often episodic care without establishing a long-term patient-doctor relationship. Dependence on Self-Reporting: Accuracy of consultation relies on patient’s ability to describe symptoms effectively.
- Appropriateness Rating (1-5, 5=High): 2-3 for simple, non-urgent issues or medication refills for stable conditions. 1-2 for potentially serious or complex symptoms. 1 for situations needing a physical exam or in-depth investigation.
B) Repeat (Chronic Conditions, Checkups)
C) Prevention Medical Checkups
Top 10 Searches People Use for These Healthcare Solutions (Illustrative Examples):
It’s important to note that search trends are dynamic and can vary regionally. These are illustrative examples of searches people might use when seeking healthcare solutions outside traditional doctor/hospital/insurance routes:
- “pharmacy open now near me” (seeking immediate access, often for OTC or urgent refills)
- “over the counter cold medicine” (seeking self-treatment for common ailments)
- “at home STD test” (seeking private and convenient testing)
- “telehealth no insurance” (specifically seeking affordable virtual care options without insurance)
- “online prescription refill no doctor” (seeking prescription renewals without a doctor’s visit)
- “walk in vaccine clinic pharmacy” (seeking convenient vaccination access)
- “direct to consumer lab testing” (searching for at-home blood test options)
- “cheap online doctor consultation” (seeking affordable telehealth services)
- “home cholesterol test kit” (seeking self-monitoring of specific biomarkers)
- “pharmacy blood pressure check free” (seeking free basic health screenings at pharmacies)
When to Choose Traditional Care vs. These Alternatives: Knowing Your Limits
While pharmacies, at-home testing, and no-insurance tele-consultations offer valuable options for certain healthcare needs, it’s crucial to recognize their limitations and understand when traditional medical care from a doctor or hospital is essential. Choosing the wrong approach can lead to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and potentially worse health outcomes.
Clear Guidelines: Scenarios Warranting Traditional Medical Care
Seek Immediate Emergency Care (ER or 911/Emergency Services) for:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Sudden shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Severe abdominal pain
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
- Sudden vision changes
- Loss of consciousness or fainting
- Head injury or trauma
- Severe bleeding that won’t stop
- Seizures
- Suicidal thoughts or feeling like you might harm yourself or others
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): hives, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, dizziness.
Schedule an Urgent or Same-Day Doctor’s Appointment (GP or Urgent Care) for:
- High fever (especially in infants, children, and the elderly)
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea, especially with signs of dehydration (decreased urination, dizziness)
- Severe headache, especially if sudden onset, accompanied by fever, stiff neck, or confusion
- Worsening asthma or COPD symptoms despite usual medications
- Signs of infection: spreading redness, warmth, pus, increasing pain around a wound or cut.
- Unexplained weight loss
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits that persist for more than a few days
- New lump or skin change that is growing or concerning
- Persistent cough, especially if productive of colored sputum or associated with fever or shortness of breath
Schedule a Routine Doctor’s Appointment (GP or Specialist) for:
- Routine preventative checkups and screenings (cancer screenings, vaccinations as recommended)
- Management of diagnosed chronic conditions (diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, asthma, etc.)
- New or persistent symptoms that are not improving with self-care or OTC medications after a reasonable timeframe (e.g., persistent cough for more than 2 weeks, ongoing digestive issues)
- Referrals to specialists for specific health concerns (e.g., dermatologist for skin issues, cardiologist for heart concerns)
- Medication reviews and management of complex medication regimens
- Mental health concerns requiring professional evaluation and treatment
When Alternatives Might Be Considered (With Caution and Awareness of Limitations):
- Pharmacies: For very minor, well-recognized symptoms (e.g., uncomplicated cold, minor allergy flare-up, occasional heartburn), after you have experience with these symptoms and know how to manage them safely with OTC options. For routine medication refills for stable, well-managed chronic conditions. For flu and other recommended vaccinations.
- At-Home Testing: For general wellness monitoring as supplemental information to regular doctor visits, or for discreet testing for specific concerns like STIs, understanding that positive or concerning results require prompt follow-up with a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Never use DTC tests as a substitute for doctor-recommended screenings for cancer or other serious diseases.
- No-Insurance Tele-consultations: For very simple, non-urgent health questions, medication refills for stable, well-managed chronic conditions, when access to in-person care is genuinely limited or delayed. Not appropriate for new symptoms that are concerning, worsening, or persistent, or for complex health issues.
Danger Signs: Red Flags to Heed
- Worsening symptoms despite self-care or alternative approaches: If your symptoms are not improving or are getting worse, seek professional medical help promptly.
- Symptoms lasting longer than expected: Minor ailments typically resolve within a certain timeframe. Persistent symptoms warrant medical evaluation.
- “Gut feeling” that something is seriously wrong: Trust your intuition. If you feel very concerned about your health, it’s always best to get it checked out by a doctor.
- Symptoms that interfere with daily life: If your symptoms are impacting your ability to work, sleep, eat, or engage in normal activities, seek professional care.
Remember: When in doubt, err on the side of caution and choose traditional medical care. Your health is paramount. These alternative options are supplementary tools, not replacements for comprehensive medical expertise and care when needed.
Cost Comparison: Beyond the Initial Fee – The True Cost of Healthcare Choices
While pharmacies, at-home testing, and no-insurance tele-consultations often appear cheaper upfront, focusing solely on the initial fee can be misleading and potentially more expensive in the long run. A true cost comparison needs to consider the broader picture of healthcare expenses and potential downstream costs.
Initial Cost vs. Total Cost of Care
- Pharmacies (OTC medications): OTC medications can be cheaper than a doctor’s visit and prescription for minor, self-limiting conditions. However, if you misdiagnose yourself or the OTC medication is ineffective, you may delay getting appropriate treatment, leading to:
- Prolonged illness and lost productivity: Time off work, impact on daily life.
- Worsening symptoms and complications: Minor issues can become more serious if untreated.
- Eventual doctor visit and higher costs: You may still need to see a doctor later, potentially for a more complex and costly condition.
- At-Home Testing (DTC): The initial cost of a DTC test may seem appealing compared to a doctor’s visit and lab fees. However:
- Interpretation and follow-up costs: You may need to pay for a doctor’s visit to interpret results, especially if abnormal, and for any necessary follow-up testing or treatment.
- Repeat testing: If results are unclear or concerning, repeat testing may be needed, adding to the cost.
- False negatives/false positives and associated anxiety/unnecessary follow-up: Inaccurate results can lead to emotional distress and potentially unnecessary medical procedures.
- Tele-consultations (No Insurance Focus): Tele-consultation fees are typically lower than in-person doctor visits, especially without insurance. However:
- Limited scope and potential for missed diagnoses: If your condition requires a physical exam or in-depth investigation not possible via telehealth, a missed or delayed diagnosis can lead to more serious and costly health problems later.
- Fragmentation of care: Episodic telehealth care without a regular doctor can lead to fragmented medical records and lack of continuity of care, potentially increasing the risk of medical errors or inefficient care coordination in the long run, which can become costly if health deteriorates.
- Cost of referrals and follow-up: Telehealth platforms may not fully cover referrals to specialists or ongoing management, requiring additional out-of-pocket expenses.
The Value of Health Insurance: Beyond the Monthly Premium
While health insurance premiums are an ongoing cost, insurance offers crucial financial protection and benefits that alternative options lack:
- Preventative care coverage: Insurance often covers routine checkups, vaccinations, and screenings at little to no out-of-pocket cost, preventing more expensive health issues later.
- Negotiated rates with providers: Insurance companies negotiate lower rates with in-network doctors and hospitals, reducing your overall healthcare costs compared to cash prices.
- Financial protection against major medical events: Insurance protects you from catastrophic financial burden in case of serious illness, accidents, or hospitalizations, which can quickly deplete savings.
- Access to specialist networks: Insurance plans provide access to a network of specialists, ensuring you can see the right expert when needed.
- Prescription drug coverage: Insurance can significantly reduce the cost of prescription medications, especially for chronic conditions or expensive medications.
Making Informed Cost Decisions:
- Consider the whole picture: Don’t just focus on the immediate cost savings. Evaluate the potential long-term costs and risks associated with alternative options.
- Factor in insurance benefits: Recognize the value of insurance coverage in preventing future expenses and providing financial security.
- For minor issues, weigh convenience vs. potential risks: For simple, self-limiting issues, OTC medications may be cost-effective and convenient. However, be aware of the limitations.
- For ongoing care, prioritize comprehensive management: Chronic conditions and preventative care generally benefit from the comprehensive and coordinated care offered by traditional doctor-led healthcare within an insurance framework.
- If cost is a major barrier, explore affordable insurance options: Investigate government programs like Medicaid or subsidies available through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplaces before forgoing insurance altogether. Community health centers also offer care on a sliding fee scale.
In conclusion, while alternative healthcare solutions may seem appealing from a purely initial cost perspective, a responsible approach requires a broader cost-benefit analysis. Consider the potential for delayed or inadequate care, the long-term financial security provided by insurance, and the importance of comprehensive, coordinated medical management, especially for ongoing health needs and preventative care.
Quality and Reliability Considerations: Navigating the Landscape of Healthcare Options
When choosing healthcare solutions outside of the traditional doctor-hospital-insurance model, it’s essential to be aware of quality and reliability considerations. These alternatives offer convenience and accessibility, but they also come with potential limitations in terms of scope of care, accuracy, and professional oversight.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications: Responsible Use and Limitations
- Benefits: Convenient for self-treatment of minor ailments, widely accessible, often cost-effective for short-term symptom relief.
- Reliability Considerations:
- Symptom masking: OTCs can relieve symptoms but may mask underlying, more serious conditions, delaying proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Dosage and interactions: Incorrect dosage or interactions with other medications (prescription or OTC) or supplements can be harmful. Always read labels carefully and consult a pharmacist if unsure.
- Not a substitute for medical diagnosis: OTCs are not intended for self-diagnosis or treatment of complex or persistent health problems.
- Limited effectiveness for certain conditions: OTCs are effective for specific minor ailments but are not a solution for many health issues requiring medical intervention.
- Responsible Use:
- Use for intended purpose and duration: Follow package instructions carefully. Do not exceed recommended doses or duration of use.
- Be aware of potential side effects and interactions: Read warnings and precautions on labels.
- If symptoms worsen or do not improve within a reasonable timeframe, stop OTC use and see a doctor.
- Consult a pharmacist for advice: Pharmacists are valuable resources for OTC medication advice, especially regarding interactions or suitability for your specific health conditions.
At-Home Blood Tests, Screenings, and Examinations (DTC): Accuracy and Interpretation
- Benefits: Convenient, private, direct access to health data, can empower proactive health monitoring for some individuals.
- Reliability Considerations:
- Variability in test accuracy: Accuracy of DTC tests can vary depending on the test type, provider, and quality control. Choose reputable companies with clear certifications and validation data.
- Sample collection errors: Incorrect sample collection at home can lead to inaccurate results. Follow instructions precisely.
- Lack of medical context for interpretation: Results are provided without the context of your overall health history, physical exam findings, or other relevant clinical information, making self-interpretation challenging and potentially misleading.
- Anxiety and misinterpretation: Abnormal results can cause significant anxiety, even if not clinically significant, without professional medical guidance. Normal variations can also be misinterpreted as problematic.
- No guarantee of follow-up care: DTC companies primarily provide test results, not ongoing medical care or treatment recommendations.
- Responsible Use:
- Use for general wellness monitoring or specific, discreet screenings (e.g., STIs), not as a substitute for doctor-recommended screenings.
- Choose reputable DTC providers with transparent quality control and certifications.
- Understand test limitations: Be aware of the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the tests you choose.
- Always discuss results with your doctor: Share DTC test results with your physician for proper interpretation within your overall health context, diagnosis, and appropriate follow-up, especially for abnormal or concerning results.
- Don’t rely solely on DTC tests for making major health decisions without professional medical guidance.
Tele-consultations (No Insurance Focus): Scope and Limitations of Virtual Care
- Benefits: Convenient, accessible, affordable compared to traditional in-person visits for some individuals, can expand access to care in underserved areas.
- Reliability Considerations:
- Limited physical exam: Telehealth cannot replace in-person physical examinations, which are crucial for diagnosing many conditions.
- Scope of care limitations: Telehealth is best suited for straightforward, uncomplicated health concerns, medication refills for stable conditions, and general advice. It is not appropriate for emergencies, complex conditions, or situations requiring hands-on procedures.
- Technology dependence: Reliability depends on technology access (internet, devices) and digital literacy, potentially creating barriers for some populations.
- Variability in provider quality: Quality of care can vary across different telehealth platforms and providers. Research the platform and provider credentials.
- Episodic care and lack of continuity: Telehealth services may be episodic, lacking the continuity of care and established patient-doctor relationship of traditional primary care.
- Responsible Use:
- Use for appropriate conditions: Utilize telehealth for simple, non-urgent issues or medication refills for stable, well-managed chronic conditions, when in-person access is limited or delayed.
- Be prepared to describe symptoms clearly and accurately: Telehealth relies on your ability to communicate your symptoms effectively without a physical exam.
- Verify provider credentials and platform reputation: Choose reputable telehealth platforms with licensed providers and secure, HIPAA-compliant practices.
- Understand telehealth limitations: Recognize that telehealth is not a substitute for in-person care when a physical exam or hands-on procedures are necessary.
- Be prepared to seek in-person care if needed: If your condition requires a physical exam, further testing, or in-person treatment, be prepared to seek follow-up care with a doctor or at a clinic.
Prioritizing Quality and Safety:
When choosing healthcare solutions outside the traditional model, prioritize quality and safety by:
- Being an informed consumer: Research providers, services, and products thoroughly.
- Understanding limitations: Be aware of the scope and limitations of each alternative.
- Seeking professional guidance when needed: Don’t hesitate to consult a doctor or pharmacist when uncertain or when dealing with complex or concerning health issues.
- Trusting your instincts: If something feels “off” or you are concerned about the quality of care, seek a second opinion or switch to a more trusted option.
- Prioritizing established healthcare relationships: For ongoing care and comprehensive health management, a strong relationship with a primary care physician remains the cornerstone of quality healthcare.
Responsible Use and Ethical Considerations: Navigating a Shifting Healthcare Landscape
As healthcare options diversify beyond the traditional doctor’s office, responsible use and ethical considerations become increasingly important. Making informed and ethical choices ensures you benefit from these alternatives without compromising your health or contributing to potential downsides in the broader healthcare system.
Responsible Self-Management Within Limits:
-
Empowerment with Responsibility: Self-care and using alternative healthcare solutions can be empowering, giving you more control over your health decisions. However, empowerment comes with responsibility. You must be willing to:
- Educate yourself: Learn about your health conditions, treatment options, and the limitations of self-care and alternative approaches.
- Be honest with yourself: Recognize when self-care is sufficient and when professional medical help is needed. Avoid denial or downplaying serious symptoms.
- Be proactive about follow-up: If using DTC testing or telehealth, take responsibility for following up with a doctor for abnormal results or ongoing care.
- Avoid over-reliance on alternatives: Don’t let convenience or cost savings lead you to overuse or inappropriately rely on pharmacies, DTC tests, or limited telehealth for conditions that require comprehensive medical care.
-
Ethical Use of Resources: While seeking cost-effective healthcare is understandable, consider the ethical implications of healthcare choices:
- Avoiding unnecessary ER use: Using emergency rooms for non-emergency issues strains the system and increases costs for everyone. Reserve ERs for true emergencies.
- Respecting pharmacists’ time: Pharmacists are valuable healthcare professionals. Seek their advice responsibly for appropriate OTC use and medication management, but don’t overburden them with complex medical questions best addressed by a doctor.
- Understanding the scope of telehealth: Use telehealth responsibly for appropriate conditions and recognize its limitations. Avoid using telehealth as a substitute for needed in-person care, potentially delaying diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Data Privacy and Security with DTC Testing and Telehealth:
-
DTC Genetic Testing Privacy: Genetic information is highly sensitive. Be aware of:
- Data security practices: Choose DTC companies with robust data security measures and transparent privacy policies. Understand how your genetic data is stored, used, and shared.
- Potential data sharing: Some DTC companies may share anonymized data for research or with pharmaceutical companies. Understand their data sharing policies and opt-out if concerned.
- Genetic information privacy laws: Be aware of legal protections for your genetic information in your jurisdiction (e.g., GINA in the US).
-
Telehealth Platform Security and HIPAA Compliance: Telehealth involves sharing personal health information electronically. Ensure:
- HIPAA compliance: Choose telehealth platforms that are HIPAA compliant and protect your privacy according to healthcare privacy laws.
- Secure communication: Use platforms with secure video and messaging to protect your health information during consultations.
- Data security policies: Review the telehealth platform’s privacy policy to understand how your data is stored and used.
Informed Consent and Transparency:
- Telehealth Informed Consent: Ensure telehealth providers obtain informed consent, explaining the limitations of virtual care, potential risks and benefits, and alternatives (including in-person care).
- DTC Test Transparency: Reputable DTC companies should provide clear information about test accuracy, limitations, and the need for professional medical follow-up. Be wary of companies making exaggerated health claims or offering tests without clear scientific validity.
- Provider Credentials and Platform Reputation: Verify the credentials of telehealth providers and the reputation of DTC testing companies and telehealth platforms before using their services.
Promoting Equitable Access and Responsible Innovation:
- Addressing Health Disparities: While alternative options can increase accessibility, be mindful of how they might exacerbate existing health disparities if not equitably available or affordable to all populations. Advocate for policies that ensure equitable access to all forms of healthcare, including traditional and innovative approaches.
- Supporting Responsible Innovation: Encourage the development and adoption of telehealth and DTC testing in ways that enhance healthcare quality, accessibility, and affordability while upholding ethical principles, protecting patient privacy, and ensuring responsible use within the broader healthcare system.
Sources: This guide is based on a synthesis of information from various sources including:
- Pew Research Center: Reports on healthcare access and utilization trends, including uninsured populations and use of alternative healthcare options. (www.pewresearch.org)
- Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF): Data and analysis on health insurance coverage, healthcare costs, and access to care in the US. (www.kff.org)
- National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS): Information on pharmacy services, role of pharmacists in primary care, and expanded pharmacy services. (www.nacds.org)
- Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing Companies Websites: Information gathered from websites of leading DTC genetic and health testing companies regarding their services, test offerings, and limitations (e.g., 23andMe, Everlywell, LetsGetChecked).
- Telehealth Provider Websites & Industry Reports: Information from telehealth provider websites focusing on no-insurance and affordable telehealth services, and industry reports on telehealth adoption and trends.
- Academic Literature & Public Health Journals: Research articles on self-care practices, OTC medication use, DTC testing adoption, telehealth effectiveness, and healthcare access barriers (search databases like PubMed, Google Scholar).
- Expert Opinions & Clinical Experience: Inferences and general understanding of healthcare utilization patterns, access issues, and limitations of different healthcare modalities based on clinical experience and expert perspectives.
The Hosst.com Platform uses a Digital Twin to help users manage their health by tracking, organising, and optimising healthcare activities. It provides personalised insights and assists with scheduling checkups, tests, and doctor visits.
Key features include:
- Symptom management: Recommends tests and treatments based on user input.
- Health data tracking: Monitors glucose, blood pressure, and more from health devices or manual inputs. Connects with your favorite apps and health monitors.
- Alerts: Warns of abnormal health signs and suggests corrective actions.
- Lifestyle recommendations: Offers diet, medication, and lifestyle tips based on health trends.
- Test result interpretation: Simplifies complex results and explains what they mean for the user.
- Preventive care: Sends reminders for checkups and suggests actions to prevent illness.
- Health scenario simulations: Predicts potential health outcomes based on current data.
- Product and service finder: Helps users find the right healthcare product or service.
- Doctor visit preparation: Gathers vitals, history, insurance, and questions for productive visits, with easy sharing to doctors.
- User-friendly: Ask in your own words, available on tablets, desktops, and mobile devices.
The platform simplifies health management and improves well-being. Free and easy to use and no installation required, get started today.
Disclaimer: The information provided in these articles is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about your health or starting any treatments.
Photo credits Freepik.com