How to Get an Online Doctor Consultation in Arizona

Getting medical care shouldn’t feel like a chore. We’ve all been there: rearranging our entire day, sitting in traffic, and flipping through old magazines in a waiting room, all for a 15-minute appointment. There is a better way to manage your health. Telemedicine connects you with a qualified physician from the comfort of your home, on your schedule. It’s not just for a quick cold diagnosis; it’s a powerful tool for managing chronic conditions, discussing weight management, or getting consistent follow-up care. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about an online doctor consultation Arizona, showing you how simple and effective it can be to prioritize your well-being.

Key Takeaways

Access a Wide Range of Medical Care from Home: Telemedicine isn’t just for a common cold; it’s a highly effective way to manage chronic conditions, get mental health support, and handle follow-up appointments, making consistent care more accessible.
A Little Prep Work Goes a Long Way: Ensure a smooth and productive visit by verifying your doctor is licensed in Arizona, preparing a list of your symptoms and questions, and choosing a quiet, private space for your appointment.
Know When a Virtual Visit Is the Right Choice: While perfect for many routine needs, telemedicine is not for emergencies. Always call 911 or go to an emergency room for life-threatening symptoms like chest pain or severe bleeding.

What Is an Online Doctor Visit?

Think of an online doctor visit as a regular appointment, just without the waiting room. Also known as telehealth or telemedicine, it’s a way for you to connect with a doctor or other medical professional virtually. Instead of rearranging your schedule to travel to a clinic, you can have your appointment from the comfort of your home using a phone, tablet, or computer. It’s a secure and highly effective way to get personalized medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment plans for a wide range of health concerns.

This isn’t just for a quick check-up on a common cold. Online visits are perfect for managing chronic conditions like fatigue or hormone imbalances, discussing weight management goals, or getting follow-up care after a procedure. It removes many of the traditional barriers to seeing a doctor, like taking time off work, finding childcare, or dealing with traffic. The goal is to make quality healthcare more accessible, allowing you to get the expert care you need without disrupting your entire day. This modern approach to medicine puts you in control, making it easier than ever to prioritize your well-being on your own terms and build a lasting relationship with a trusted physician.

How Virtual Appointments Work

Getting started with a virtual appointment is surprisingly simple. You’ll use a familiar device like your smartphone, tablet, or computer to connect with your doctor through a secure video platform. During the visit, you’ll talk face-to-face about your symptoms and health history, just as you would in an office. Your doctor can assess your condition, answer your questions, recommend treatments, and, if necessary, send prescriptions directly to your preferred pharmacy. The entire process is confidential and designed to be user-friendly, ensuring your private health information is always protected while you get the care you need.

Why Arizona Residents Are Choosing Telemedicine

Arizona has made it easier than ever for residents to connect with a doctor online. Recent legislation has dramatically expanded access to virtual care, making it a popular choice across the state. For many, this means no more long drives to see a primary care physician or specialist, especially for those living outside a major city. These telehealth services bridge the distance, making consistent, quality healthcare more accessible whether you’re in Phoenix, Flagstaff, or a smaller community. It’s a practical solution that saves time, reduces travel costs, and fits expert medical care seamlessly into your busy life.

What Kind of Care Can You Get Online in Arizona?

One of the best things about telemedicine is its versatility. It’s not just for a quick check-in when you have a cold. Online doctor visits in Arizona now cover a wide range of health needs, from managing long-term conditions to getting a prescription refill. Whether you need ongoing support from a primary care physician or a quick consultation for a minor illness, you can likely find the help you need from the comfort of your home. This flexibility makes it easier than ever to stay on top of your health without rearranging your entire schedule.

Primary and Chronic Disease Care

If you’re managing a long-term health condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a thyroid disorder, virtual primary care is a game-changer. Regular online appointments allow your doctor to monitor your progress, adjust medications, and provide ongoing support without you having to travel to a clinic. This is especially helpful for anyone dealing with chronic fatigue or hormonal imbalances who needs consistent, personalized care. Many telehealth services are designed to build a lasting relationship with a primary care provider who truly understands your health history and goals, making it a convenient and effective way to manage your well-being.

Help for Common Illnesses

We’ve all been there—waking up with a sore throat, a nagging cough, or a mysterious rash and dreading the thought of sitting in a waiting room. This is where online urgent care shines. For non-life-threatening issues like colds, the flu, sinus infections, and minor skin irritations, a virtual visit can get you a diagnosis and treatment plan quickly. You can speak with a medical professional over a video call, explain your symptoms, and get a prescription sent to your local pharmacy if needed. It’s a straightforward and efficient way to get medical advice for common ailments right when you need it.

Mental Health Support

Taking care of your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health, and telemedicine has made it more accessible than ever. You can connect with therapists and psychiatrists online for support with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, and other life challenges. These virtual sessions offer a private, comfortable, and convenient space to talk through what you’re feeling and develop coping strategies. For many, the ability to have a therapy session from home removes a major barrier to seeking help, making consistent mental health care a realistic part of their routine.

Specialized Care (Dermatology, etc.)

Telemedicine is also expanding into many specialty fields. Dermatology is a perfect example—you can often get a consultation for skin issues like acne, eczema, or psoriasis by simply uploading photos for a dermatologist to review. Beyond skin care, more specialists are offering virtual appointments for follow-ups, medication management, and consultations that don’t require a physical exam. While not every condition can be handled remotely, you might be surprised by how many different types of specialized care you can access online, saving you time and travel for expert medical opinions.

How an Online Doctor Visit in Arizona Works

Getting started with telemedicine can feel a little uncertain if you’ve never done it before, but the process is designed to be simple and secure. Think of it as a regular doctor’s appointment, just without the waiting room. From scheduling your visit to talking with your doctor and getting a prescription, every step is handled through a secure online platform. While the exact interface might look different depending on the provider you choose, the core steps are generally the same across the board.

The main goal is to connect you with a qualified healthcare professional who can listen to your concerns, assess your symptoms, and create a personalized treatment plan—all from the comfort of your home. It’s a convenient way to manage chronic conditions, address acute illnesses, or simply get expert medical advice without disrupting your entire day. Let’s walk through exactly what you can expect from your first online doctor visit in Arizona.

What Technology You’ll Need

You don’t need to be a tech expert or buy any special equipment for a virtual visit. All you really need is a device with an internet connection, a camera, and a microphone. This could be your smartphone, a tablet, or a laptop. Most telehealth platforms are accessible directly through a web browser or a simple app you can download. The most important thing is having a stable internet connection to ensure your video call is clear and doesn’t drop. If you’re concerned about your connection, you can find resources to check your internet speed or explore options like the FCC’s Affordable Connectivity Program for assistance.

How to Schedule Your Appointment

Booking a virtual appointment is often more flexible than scheduling an in-person one. The first step is to visit your chosen provider’s website, like the Nugen Medicine patient portal, and create an account. You’ll be asked to provide some basic information, such as your name, contact details, and sometimes your health insurance information so the office can verify your coverage. Once your account is set up, you can view the doctor’s availability and select an appointment time that fits your schedule. This process puts you in control, allowing you to book a visit in minutes without ever having to pick up the phone.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Your online consultation will feel much like a traditional office visit. You’ll join a private, secure video call to meet one-on-one with a board-certified doctor or clinician. Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms, your medical history, and any questions or concerns you have. It’s a dedicated time for you to have a real conversation about your health. The doctor will listen carefully to provide a diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan tailored to you. You can always verify a physician’s credentials through the Arizona Medical Board to ensure you’re speaking with a licensed professional.

Getting Prescriptions and Follow-Up Care

If your doctor determines you need medication, they can send a prescription electronically to your preferred pharmacy for pickup. This process is fast, secure, and works for most common prescription medications. Just let your doctor know which pharmacy is most convenient for you. Your care doesn’t end when the video call is over, either. Many telehealth providers, including Nugen Medicine, offer follow-up support through a secure messaging portal. This allows you to ask questions, report on your progress, and stay connected with your doctor as you begin your treatment plan, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.

How Much Do Online Doctor Visits Cost in Arizona?

One of the biggest questions people have about telemedicine is the cost. The good news is that virtual care is often more affordable than a traditional office visit, especially when you factor in time saved and travel expenses. The final price tag depends on the platform you choose, the type of care you need, and your insurance coverage.

Many online practices offer transparent, flat-rate pricing, so you know exactly what to expect before your appointment begins. This is a refreshing change from the often-confusing billing of in-person clinics. Whether you have a comprehensive insurance plan or are paying out-of-pocket, there are accessible options available to help you get the care you need without breaking the bank. Let’s explore what you can expect to pay for an online doctor visit in Arizona.

Typical Price Ranges

The cost for a virtual consultation can vary quite a bit. For general medical issues, you’ll find a range of prices depending on the length and complexity of the visit. For example, some platforms offer different pricing for a quick chat versus a more in-depth consultation.

To give you an idea, Doctor On Demand states that a 15-minute medical visit costs $99. For mental health, therapy with a psychologist starts at $134, while an initial psychiatry visit is $299. Other services, like Amazon One Medical, offer pay-per-visit options starting from $29 for a message-based consultation and $49 for a video call. These figures can help you get a general sense of the market as you compare different providers.

Using Your Insurance Coverage

If you have health insurance, you’ll be happy to know that most major plans now cover telemedicine appointments. In many cases, your out-of-pocket cost could be the same as your regular copay for an in-person visit. Depending on your specific plan, your visit could even be fully covered. As Doctor On Demand notes, “Your visit could be as low as $0, depending on your plan.”

Many telehealth platforms work directly with national and regional insurance carriers. For instance, Doctor On Demand accepts plans from Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, and even Medicare Part B for certain services. Before booking, it’s always a smart move to check with your insurance provider or on the telehealth platform’s website to confirm your coverage.

Options If You’re Paying Out-of-Pocket

Don’t have insurance or have a high-deductible plan? You still have plenty of affordable options. Many people choose to pay for virtual visits directly because the pricing is straightforward and often less expensive than an uninsured trip to an urgent care clinic. This approach allows you to get immediate care without worrying about surprise bills later on.

For self-pay patients, a standard 15-minute medical visit with a platform like Doctor On Demand is a flat $99. This fee covers the consultation, diagnosis, and any prescriptions the doctor might send to your pharmacy. This direct-pay model is a great way to access quality care on your own terms.

Who Offers Online Doctor Consultations in Arizona?

Finding the right virtual care in Arizona comes down to what you’re looking for. Do you need a long-term relationship with a primary care physician who understands your health history, or are you looking for a quick consultation for a minor issue? The good news is, you have plenty of options, from dedicated local practices to large national platforms. Each offers a different approach to care, so it’s helpful to know what sets them apart.

Nugen Medicine Telemedicine

If you’re seeking consistent, personalized care from a physician who gets to know you, a local practice like Nugen Medicine is an excellent choice. Based in Maricopa County, we provide online doctor consultations that extend our in-person care to patients across Arizona. This model is ideal for managing chronic conditions, addressing complex issues like hormone imbalance or fatigue, and building a lasting relationship with your doctor. Instead of speaking with a random provider each time, you connect with a dedicated team invested in your long-term health, all from the comfort of your home. This approach ensures your care is continuous and tailored specifically to your evolving needs.

Doctor On Demand

For on-the-spot medical needs, platforms like Doctor On Demand offer a convenient solution. This service connects you with board-certified doctors, therapists, and psychiatrists via your phone or computer for a wide range of issues. It’s a strong option for urgent care needs like colds and flu, preventive health questions, and mental health support. The primary focus is immediate access, making it a go-to for single-issue appointments when you need care quickly without leaving your house. Think of it as a virtual walk-in clinic, perfect for those unexpected health concerns that don’t require an ongoing relationship with a provider.

Walgreens Virtual Healthcare

Many people turn to familiar retail brands for convenient healthcare, and Walgreens is a major player in this space. Through Walgreens Virtual Healthcare, you can connect with licensed clinicians online to get diagnoses and affordable prescriptions, often within a few hours. This service is particularly useful for common, straightforward illnesses where you already have a good idea of what’s wrong and primarily need a prescription. The integration with their pharmacies also makes picking up your medication simple and streamlined, combining the consultation and fulfillment process into one easy experience.

Amazon One Medical and Other Services

Tech companies have also entered the virtual care space, with Amazon being a prominent example. Amazon One Medical offers a pay-per-visit model for over 30 common health concerns, providing another accessible option for quick consultations. Beyond these major names, a growing number of smaller platforms and specialized services are available to Arizona residents. The key is to find a provider that aligns with your specific health goals, whether that’s a one-time visit for a sinus infection or ongoing management of your overall wellness. Your best choice will depend on the type and depth of care you need.

How to Choose the Right Online Doctor in Arizona

With so many telehealth options available, finding the right fit can feel overwhelming. But taking a few minutes to vet your choices can make all the difference in your healthcare experience. You’re not just looking for a quick prescription; you’re looking for a partner in your health. The best online doctor for you will be one who is qualified, understands your specific needs, uses technology that makes your life easier, and takes your privacy seriously. Here’s a simple checklist to help you find a trusted virtual provider in Arizona.

Verify Licenses and Credentials

First things first: make sure your doctor is legally allowed to practice in your state. Any physician offering telemedicine in Arizona must hold a valid, current medical license for the state, even if their practice is physically located somewhere else. Reputable telehealth platforms and private practices will make this information easy to find, often listing credentials on their website’s “About Us” page or in the doctor’s biography. If you can’t find it, don’t hesitate to ask. Verifying that your doctor is board-certified in their specialty also adds another layer of confidence, ensuring they have met rigorous standards in their field of medicine.

Find the Specialties You Need

Telehealth isn’t just for treating the common cold or a sinus infection. While it’s great for acute issues, many of the best telehealth services also provide ongoing care for chronic conditions, mental health support, medical weight loss, and hormone replacement therapy. Think about your health goals. Are you looking for a primary care physician to manage your overall wellness, or do you need specialized support for a condition like chronic fatigue or a hormone imbalance? Look for a provider or practice that highlights experience in the areas that matter most to you. This ensures you’re getting care from someone who truly understands your health concerns.

Check for an Easy-to-Use Platform

The whole point of telemedicine is convenience, so a clunky or confusing app can defeat the purpose. Before you commit, explore the provider’s website or patient portal. Is it easy to schedule an appointment? Can you message your doctor’s office with questions? How do you access your lab results or medical records? A quality provider will invest in a robust platform that makes managing your healthcare simple and stress-free. Look for clear navigation, secure messaging features, and a straightforward process for virtual visits. Many services offer a glimpse into their platform before you even sign up.

Confirm Your Privacy Is Protected

Your health information is sensitive, and it deserves the highest level of protection. Any legitimate telehealth provider must be HIPAA-compliant, which is the federal law that protects the privacy of your medical records. This means they must use secure, encrypted technology for video calls, messaging, and storing your data. Before your first appointment, look for a clear privacy policy on their website. Reputable services will be transparent about how your health information is kept private and will never sell your data. This commitment to security is a key sign of a professional and trustworthy medical practice.

What Can (and Can’t) Be Treated Virtually?

Telemedicine is a fantastic tool for getting care right from your couch, but it’s important to know its scope. While incredibly convenient for many health concerns, it isn’t the right fit for every situation. Understanding what works for a virtual visit versus what needs an in-person touch helps you get the right care at the right time. Let’s break down what your online doctor can handle and when you should head to a clinic.

Conditions a Virtual Doctor Can Treat

Think of all the times you’ve felt unwell but didn’t want to drag yourself to a clinic. That’s where virtual care shines. Online doctors are well-equipped to diagnose and treat a wide range of common illnesses, including colds, the flu, sinus infections, UTIs, pink eye, and many skin rashes. They can review your symptoms, make a diagnosis, and send a prescription to your local pharmacy if needed.

Beyond that, telemedicine is perfect for managing ongoing health goals. At Nugen Medicine, we regularly use virtual visits for follow-ups on weight management plans, discussing lab results for hormone therapy, and adjusting medications for chronic conditions like fatigue or ADHD. It’s a convenient way to stay on track with your health without disrupting your life.

When You Need to See a Doctor in Person

Sometimes, a doctor simply needs to be in the same room as you. A virtual visit can’t replace a hands-on physical exam, which is essential for certain diagnoses and procedures. This is true for things that require a physical touch, like checking for tenderness in your abdomen, or for procedures like getting stitches, a Pap smear, or certain vaccinations. If you have a deep cut or suspect a broken bone, an in-person visit is the way to go.

It’s also common for an online doctor to recommend an in-person follow-up. If your symptoms are complex or can’t be fully assessed through a screen, your provider will guide you on the best next steps, which might include visiting a local clinic or urgent care for a closer look.

What Counts as an Emergency

Let’s be crystal clear on this: telemedicine is not for emergencies. If you are experiencing a life-threatening situation, your first step should always be to call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. These are situations that require immediate, hands-on medical attention that a virtual appointment simply cannot provide.

What are true medical emergencies? Think chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding that won’t stop, sudden dizziness or loss of coordination, or signs of a stroke like facial drooping or slurred speech. These symptoms demand urgent care. When it comes to your health, it’s always better to be safe, so please don’t hesitate to seek emergency help when you need it.

Are Online Visits as Good as In-Person Appointments?

It’s a fair question. When you’re not feeling your best, you want to know you’re getting top-notch medical care. For many of us, that has always meant a trip to the doctor’s office, so it’s natural to wonder if a conversation through a screen can really measure up. The short answer is yes—for many health concerns, it absolutely can. The quality of your care has more to do with the expertise and attentiveness of your physician than the room you’re in. A great doctor will listen carefully, ask insightful questions, and develop a personalized treatment plan, whether you’re on a video call or sitting on an exam table. Let’s break down the quality, security, and technology involved.

Comparing the Quality of Care

For many routine health needs, the quality of care you receive online is equivalent to an in-person visit. Virtual appointments are highly effective for managing chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, handling follow-ups, adjusting medications, and addressing mental health concerns. For acute but non-emergency issues like colds, rashes, or infections, online care provides immediate medical advice and treatment recommendations that get you on the path to recovery quickly. The focus remains on you and your health history, allowing for a thorough and productive consultation without the hassle of travel and waiting rooms.

Is Your Health Information Secure?

Handing over personal health information online can feel vulnerable, but you can rest assured that your privacy is a top priority. Legitimate telehealth providers in Arizona operate under the same strict HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) rules that protect your data in a physical clinic. This means all communication, from the video call itself to any messages you send your doctor, is encrypted and secure. Reputable platforms make it clear that your health information is kept private and is never sold. Your telehealth privacy rights are federally protected, ensuring your sensitive data stays between you and your care team.

Overcoming Technology Hurdles

Worried you’re not tech-savvy enough for a virtual visit? Don’t be. Most platforms are designed to be incredibly user-friendly—if you can video chat with family, you can handle a telehealth appointment. The biggest benefit is access. Virtual appointments help bridge the gap for those in rural areas, “eliminating the need for long drives to see a primary care doctor or a specialist in a larger city.” While a weak internet connection can be a concern, there are effective strategies for overcoming these hurdles. Simply test your connection beforehand, find a quiet and well-lit spot, and use headphones to ensure you can hear your doctor clearly.

How to Prepare for Your Online Doctor Appointment

A little preparation goes a long way in making your virtual visit as effective as an in-person one. Taking a few minutes to get organized beforehand ensures you and your doctor can focus on what matters most: your health. Think of it as setting the stage for a productive conversation where all your concerns are heard and addressed. When you come prepared, you’re more likely to leave the appointment with a clear understanding of your health and a solid plan for what comes next. This simple step helps you take an active role in your healthcare journey and make the most of your time with your physician.

Gather Your Medical Information

Before your appointment, take a moment to pull together key details about your health. This helps your doctor get a complete picture of what’s going on. Start by jotting down your symptoms, including when they started and what makes them better or worse. Have a list of all your current medications and supplements, including dosages. If you have any recent lab results, photos of a rash, or blood pressure readings from home, have those ready to share. This information is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan, especially if you’re seeking help for ongoing issues like chronic fatigue or hormone imbalances.

Set Up Your Space and Tech

Your environment can make a big difference in the quality of your telehealth visit. Find a quiet, private, and well-lit spot where you won’t be interrupted. A strong internet connection is key for a clear video call, so it’s a good idea to test it beforehand. Make sure your computer, tablet, or smartphone is fully charged and that your camera and microphone are working properly. If technology feels like a barrier, don’t worry. Many telemedicine appointments can be conducted over the phone, ensuring you can still get the care you need without the stress of a video call. The goal is to create a comfortable space where you can speak openly with your doctor.

Prepare Questions for Your Doctor

This is your time, so don’t be shy about asking questions. It’s easy to forget things in the moment, so write down a list of your questions before your visit begins. You might want to ask about your diagnosis, the pros and cons of different treatment options, or what to expect from a new medication. This is also a great time to discuss follow-up care and any next steps you need to take. Having your questions ready ensures you leave the appointment feeling informed and confident in your care plan. It empowers you to be a true partner in managing your health.

Ready to Book Your First Online Doctor Visit?

Feeling ready to give telemedicine a try? It’s a fantastic way to get the care you need without the hassle of a traditional office visit. Booking your first online appointment is straightforward, but it helps to know a few things first. Let’s walk through your rights as a patient in Arizona and the simple steps you can take to get started.

Know Your Rights as a Patient in Arizona

Arizona has made it easier than ever to connect with a doctor online. Thanks to a law passed in 2021, your access to telehealth services is protected and expanded, giving you more flexibility in how you manage your health. This means you can confidently choose virtual care for a wide range of needs, from routine check-ups to managing chronic conditions.

One of the most important protections for you is that any doctor providing care in Arizona—even through a screen—must hold a valid Arizona medical license. This ensures you’re receiving care from a qualified professional who meets the state’s high standards. So, whether your doctor is across town or across the country, you can trust they are credentialed to practice here.

Your Next Steps to Get Started

Booking your first virtual visit is simple. Start by identifying what you need help with—is it a new symptom, a prescription refill, or ongoing management of a health condition? For many non-emergency issues, an online visit is a perfect fit. Virtual appointments are especially helpful if you live far from a specialist, as they eliminate the need for long drives and save you valuable time.

Next, find a provider that fits your needs. Look for a practice that not only specializes in your area of concern but also makes you feel heard. Once you’ve chosen a doctor, you’ll typically schedule your appointment through their website. They’ll send you a secure link for your video call, and you’ll be all set. Just make sure you have a stable internet connection and a private space for your conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my doctor decides I need a physical exam or lab work? This is a common and important question. If your doctor determines that a hands-on exam or specific lab tests are necessary, they will coordinate that for you. They can easily send an order to a local lab or imaging center near your home. If a physical assessment is needed, they will help you arrange an in-person visit, either at their clinic or with a local provider. The goal is to create a complete care plan that uses virtual visits for convenience while seamlessly integrating any necessary in-person services.

Can I get a prescription for any medication through a virtual visit? While online doctors can prescribe a wide variety of common medications, there are some limitations. They can readily handle prescriptions for acute illnesses like sinus infections, as well as ongoing medications for conditions like high blood pressure or hormone imbalances. However, federal and state regulations often require an in-person evaluation before prescribing controlled substances. Your physician will always prioritize your safety and determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific health needs.

How do I choose between a local practice like Nugen Medicine and a large national platform? The best choice really depends on your health goals. Large national platforms are often great for addressing immediate, one-time issues like a cold or a rash, where you need a quick consultation. A local practice that offers telemedicine, on the other hand, is ideal for building a lasting relationship with a physician. This approach is better for managing chronic conditions, addressing complex issues like fatigue or hormone changes, and focusing on your long-term wellness with a doctor who truly knows your health history.

Is my privacy really protected during an online appointment? Absolutely. Your privacy is taken just as seriously in a virtual visit as it is in a physical clinic. All legitimate telehealth providers are required by federal law (HIPAA) to use secure, encrypted technology for video calls, messaging, and storing your records. This ensures that your personal health information is kept completely confidential and is only accessible to you and your medical team.

What happens if I have a technical problem during my visit? Don’t worry if a technical glitch happens, as most practices have a plan for this. If your video call is disconnected, the doctor’s office will typically try to reconnect with you right away. If that doesn’t work, they will usually call you on the phone to continue the consultation and ensure all your questions are answered. Your appointment time is reserved for you, and they will make sure you get the dedicated care you need, one way or another.

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