Amazon Introduces Pay-Per-Visit Virtual Healthcare for Children

Amazon has officially launched a pay-per-visit virtual healthcare service tailored for children aged 2 to 11. This new offering, announced on October 26, 2023, is part of the company’s expansion in the healthcare sector through its primary care provider, One Medical, which Amazon acquired in 2022.

Parents can access message-based consultations starting at $29 and video visits for $49. Notably, this service does not require insurance or a One Medical membership, making it a flexible option for families seeking immediate medical assistance. The service addresses various common health concerns such as pink eye, lice, and over ten skin-related issues, including eczema and bug bites. Additionally, it facilitates renewals for EpiPen and asthma medications.

Meeting Immediate Healthcare Needs

Dr. Natasha Bhuyan, family physician and national medical director for Amazon One Medical, emphasized that this service is not meant to replace existing relationships with pediatricians. Instead, it serves as a convenient alternative for parents facing time-sensitive health concerns when they lack on-demand access through a One Medical membership.

The launch of this service aligns with a broader trend in the healthcare landscape, where major retail companies such as Walgreens, CVS, and Walmart are reevaluating their health service offerings. Recently, these companies have scaled back their retail health services, facing challenges as consumer preferences shift.

In addition to the virtual service for children, Amazon recently introduced prescription vending machines at its One Medical clinics, starting with locations in Los Angeles. These kiosks provide access to a variety of commonly prescribed medications, including antibiotics and blood pressure medications. The introduction of such technology may further disrupt traditional brick-and-mortar pharmacies, which are already navigating significant operational challenges. For instance, Rite Aid has closed all its remaining stores, while CVS has shuttered over 1,000 locations since 2021, and Walgreens has closed 500 stores in the past year.

Strategic Moves in Healthcare

The launch of the pay-per-visit service marks another strategic initiative by Amazon to solidify its presence in the healthcare industry. This move follows the company’s acquisition of the online pharmacy PillPack for $750 million in 2018 and the subsequent launch of Amazon Pharmacy in 2020. The acquisition of One Medical for $3.9 billion in 2022 further underscores Amazon’s commitment to providing accessible and innovative healthcare solutions.

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, Amazon’s latest offerings reflect a growing demand for convenient, on-demand healthcare services. The company’s ability to blend technology with healthcare delivery may reshape how families access medical care in the future.