All you need for online consultations is an internet-enabled computer, tablet or smartphone with a camera. The installed web browser should be up to date, and then you're good to go ... But what can online consultations really do?
Lawyer
A quick legal assessment by email or in an online meeting - that sounds very tempting.
Why online?
Does your employment contract contain an unknown clause, have you received a letter from the property management company, or have you received a warning letter? Many things require a quick expert assessment.
What can you do?
You post your question on a website to a group of lawyers from different fields. The price for the answer varies depending on the provider. Sometimes it's free, sometimes you suggest a price yourself.
What doesn't work?
The German Institute for Service Quality criticizes the fact that many online legal advice services cannot guarantee to answer your question quickly.
Bank
63 percent of German bank customers already carry out everyday financial transactions online - including advice?
Why online?
Many banks are increasingly closing branches - and the few that remain only have short and often inconvenient opening hours. An online appointment with a bank advisor can be the solution.
What is possible?
Some banks are flexible - with others you make an appointment in advance. The meeting with the advisor then usually takes place with a secure connection via webcam.
What is not possible?
Of course, online advice is not available around the clock. Just like the bank, advisors are only available at certain times. However, these are much more consumer-friendly.
Insurance
Insurance is a dime a dozen. To find the right one, it's important to talk to an advisor.
Why online?
A recent study has shown that 73 percent of customers now prefer online advice for "simple" insurance policies. Is that a good idea?
What is possible?
Find out online and then ask the advisor specific questions via video conference. Unlike over the phone, a webcam allows for more personal contact. What's more, you can often make the appointment outside of business hours.
What is not possible?
A face-to-face meeting is no longer possible. And that is still an important counter-argument for some when it comes to insurance matters.
Psychologist
Patients often wait a disproportionately long time for an appointment - can online therapies be an alternative?
Why online?
Depression, eating disorders or stress - anyone suffering from a mental illness needs help immediately. Some new apps and online psychologists now offer courses via the web with psychological support, including video conferences with qualified psychologists.
What is possible?
Initial contact is usually very quick and the first consultation is free of charge. Online therapies for stress prevention are often covered by health insurance. Everything else has to be paid for by the patient.
What is not possible?
Online therapies are not suitable for all illnesses. And: The Professional Association of German Psychologists warns that online counseling cannot replace psychotherapy.
Doctor
No more wasting time in overcrowded waiting rooms or traveling long distances - there's a lot to be said for online consultations.
Why online?
Doctors are often far away in the countryside - in big cities the waiting rooms are usually full. This is another reason why dermatologists, ophthalmologists, surgeons, orthopaedic surgeons and general practitioners, pediatricians and adolescent doctors may also offer online consultations.
What is possible?
Since April 1, health insurance companies have been allowed to bill for treatment via webcam in special cases. Prerequisite: It is a follow-up appointment and you have presented yourself in person at the practice.
What is not possible?
The online doctor is not allowed to diagnose an acute new illness. And: The doctor is not authorized to issue a prescription - unless it is a follow-up prescription.
Pharmacy
More than 40 percent of Germans buy their medication from a mail-order pharmacy. Does that make sense?
Why online?
Whether it's a lack of mobility or simply convenience - the more than 3,000 pharmacies online have experienced a real boom in recent years.
What is possible?
Prescription-free and prescription-only medicines are available from online pharmacies. The prescription is sent in and the goods are conveniently delivered to your home. Plus point: many online pharmacies entice their customers with substantial discounts.
What's possible?
Attention! It is extremely important to ensure that online pharmacies are reputable. Important: Make sure that they are licensed under German law. You can read this in the legal notice. And: Does it have the new green EU safety logo?