Doctor's office now at Walgreens.com

In its latest push to provide customers with digital health technology, Walgreens announced that it is partnering with MDLive on a new telehealth offering that would give customers virtual, on-demand care.

The company is rolling out a mobile app that will give Walgreens.com customers 24/7 access to U.S. board-certified doctors. The service will first be available to users in California and Michigan, and additional states and markets will be added over time.

“Offering mobile and virtual access to board-certified doctors is a natural extension of the robust range of health services that Walgreens already offers,” stated Harry Leider, chief medical officer at Walgreens. “We’re delighted to work with MDLive to provide our patients with a leading telehealth solution that will allow them to conveniently address their health conditions and needs with a medical professional.”

Last year, Walgreens launched its Pharmacy Chat feature, which allows users to chat live 24/7 with members of its pharmacy staff, as part of its telehealth platform. The MDLive partnership is an expansion of the platform by adding virtual doctor visits and ultimately, the increased access to health care.

“For the first time, a drug store’s website and mobile app users can share the convenience of accessing a board-certified doctor who can also e-prescribe medication when appropriate, via a secure, online video platform,” said Randy Parker, CEO of MDLive.

Consumers are increasingly turning to telehealth for health care services. The app will be available in both iOS and Android versions.