Amazon in new expansion in health care

Consumers may soon be able to call for medical help without having to use their phones.

Telemedicine provider Teladoc Health is launching a voice-activated, general medical virtual care program with Amazon Alexa on supported Echo devices, such as an Echo, Echo Dot and Echo Show. Available 24/7, the new Teladoc on Alexa will initially launch via audio with video visits coming soon.

To get started, customers can say, “Alexa, I want to talk to a doctor,” to their supported Echo device to get connected with the Teladoc call center. Customers will then get a call back on their Echo devices from a Teladoc doctor for virtual visits related to non-emergency health needs, such as experiencing symptoms of a cold, flu or allergies. The cost per visit can be as low as $0 per visit with insurance or $75 without insurance.

The new initiative comes as Amazon continues to position itself as a provider of on-demand healthcare services. The company now offers its Amazon Care service nationwide, and will roll out in-person care services to more than 20 new cities in 2022.

“We’re excited to work with Teladoc Health to offer our customers an easy, hands-free way to connect with a doctor,” said Debra Chrapaty, VP and COO, Amazon Alexa. “Whether they’re taking care of their sick child in the middle of the night or wanting to ask a doctor about allergy symptoms in between meetings during the day, we hope this experience will help customers find the convenient help they want from the comfort of their own home.”

Added Donna Boyer, chief product officer, Teladoc Health: “Teladoc Health’s collaboration with Amazon is yet another step in breaking down barriers to healthcare access by introducing and integrating our virtual first care experience with Echo devices, we are providing an innovative and convenient way for users to connect with a doctor.”