Amazon rolls out virtual health care services nationwide
Amazon is diving deeper into health care with the expansion of its telehealth solution.
The company said that Amazon Clinic is now available to customers in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Launched in November 2022 and previously only available in 32 states, the solution provides virtual care from licensed clinicians for more than 30 common health concerns, ranging from urinary tract infections to pink eye. Customers can access the clinicians 24/7 directly though Amazon.com and the Amazon mobile app.
In addition to video visits nationwide, Amazon Clinic provides message-based consultations in 34 states.
“As a doctor, I’ve seen firsthand that patients want to be healthy but lack the time, tools, or resources to effectively manage their care,” Dr Nworah Ayogu, chief medical officer and general manager, Amazon Clinic, wrote in a post on the company’s website. “Amazon Clinic removes barriers by helping customers treat their everyday health concerns wherever they are, at any time of day. And, they can see the cost before they start the visit.”
To get treatment, customers visit Amazon Clinic on the company’s website or mobile app. There, they can compare response times and prices from multiple telehealth provider groups, complete an intake form, and then connect with their chosen provider.
Depending on the state in which they are located, customers can connect via messaging or video call, with no appointment or insurance needed. Through Amazon Clinic’s secure message portal or video call, the clinician will provide a recommended treatment plan, which may include a prescription.
“By creating a healthcare experience that is transparent and simple, we hope to make health care more accessible for all,” said Dr Nworah Ayogu.
Amazon has been trying to make inroads into the health care market for the past couple of years, starting with its acquisition of PillPack in 2018 and the launch of its own online pharmacy in 2020. Last year, it reversed course on its Amazon Care virtual health care program for employees, shutting down the program.
Most recently, in February 2023, Amazon completed its acquisition of One Medical, a membership-based primary health care provider, for $3.9 billion