Is Hello Doctor Free? Everything You Need to Know

If you’ve ever typed "Hello Doctor" into Google, you probably saw a sleek app promising quick medical advice. The big question is: does it actually cost anything? The short answer is yes and no – you can use the basic service for free, but many useful features have a price tag. Below we break down exactly what’s free, when you’ll be charged, and how to keep the costs low.

What’s Included for Free?

When you download Hello Doctor, you instantly get access to a symptom checker. You type in what’s bothering you, and the app gives a list of possible causes. That tool is completely free and works 24/7, so you can get a quick idea before you decide whether to see a doctor. You also get a few free text chat consultations each month – usually one or two, depending on the latest promotion. These chats are with vetted clinicians who can give basic advice, suggest home remedies, or tell you if you need urgent care.

Free users also get health articles, lifestyle tips, and medication reminders. The content library is searchable and regularly updated, so you can read up on anything from flu symptoms to nutrition basics without paying a penny.

When You’ll Need to Pay

The moment you want a video call, a prescription, or a detailed medical report, the app switches to a paid model. Video consultations start at around £9‑£15 per session and can go higher for specialists. If the clinician decides you need a prescription, that also adds a small fee, typically £5‑£7, which covers the digital dispensing process.

Another cost trigger is the “priority” queue. Free users may have to wait several hours for a response, while paid users get a faster reply – often within minutes. If you’re dealing with a time‑sensitive issue, upgrading for a few pounds can be worth it.

Finally, Hello Doctor offers subscription plans that bundle unlimited chats, video calls, and prescription services for a monthly fee (usually £20‑£30). Those plans are aimed at chronic‑condition patients who need regular check‑ins.

To avoid surprise charges, always check the price displayed before you hit “confirm.” The app is clear about fees, but it’s easy to miss the pop‑up if you’re in a hurry.

Here are a few practical tips to keep your Hello Doctor experience cheap:

• Use the free symptom checker first – it often gives you enough direction.
• Save your free text chats for non‑urgent questions.
• Only upgrade to a video call if your symptoms are worsening or you need a visual exam.
• Consider the subscription only if you’re sure you’ll need multiple consultations each month.

If the paid options feel too steep, there are plenty of alternatives that stay free. NHS 111 online provides a symptom checker linked directly to NHS services, and several UK charities run free telehealth lines for specific conditions.

Bottom line: Hello Doctor offers a genuinely useful free tier for basic advice, but any deeper interaction – video, prescriptions, or priority support – will cost you. Knowing exactly what you’re paying for helps you decide whether the app fits your budget and health needs.