Amazon integrates telehealth services into One Medical
WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES — Retail giant Amazon has announced the integration of its telehealth service, Amazon Clinic, into its primary care platform, One Medical.
This strategic move aims to consolidate Amazon’s healthcare offerings under a single brand, enhancing accessibility and affordability for consumers across the United States.
New pay-per-visit and membership models
The newly rebranded One Medical Pay-per-visit telehealth service offers two distinct models: a pay-per-visit option and a membership-based plan.
The pay-per-visit model allows customers to consult healthcare providers for common conditions like pink eye, the flu, or sinus infections. Messaging visits are priced at $29, while video visits cost $49.
According to a company blog post, “For messaging visits, a clinician reviews the customer’s information, messages the customer, and customers respond at their convenience. The clinician then sends the customer a personalized treatment plan. For video visits, customers connect with a clinician in real-time on a video call.”
The membership plan is available for $199 annually or $99 for Amazon Prime members. This plan provides on-demand virtual care, same-day and next-day appointments, and access to more than 150 One Medical offices nationwide.
Members benefit from 24/7 virtual consultations, in-app services for immediate health concerns, and the ability to manage long-term conditions through both virtual and in-person visits.
Amazon Prime members can use the One Medical app to message care teams, access health records, manage prescriptions, and book appointments, with scheduled visits and lab services billed separately.
Addressing telehealth industry challenges and setting new standards
Amazon’s announcement comes at a time when the telehealth sector is facing tight margins and a need for more cost-effective solutions.
The retail giant’s integration of Amazon Clinic into One Medical is seen as a strategic response to these challenges, aiming to streamline services and reduce costs.
In contrast, other major players like Walmart have recently scaled back their virtual care programs due to mounting costs and reimbursement issues.
Amazon’s healthcare strategy has been evolving, marked by significant investments, including the acquisition of One Medical for $3.9 billion. The integration of Amazon Clinic into One Medical is part of a broader vision to enhance healthcare accessibility and affordability.
By offering both pay-per-visit and membership-based models, Amazon aims to cater to a wide range of healthcare needs, from one-time consultations to ongoing care management.
Impact on telehealth market
The consolidation of Amazon’s healthcare services under the One Medical brand is expected to have a significant impact on the telehealth market.
By leveraging One Medical’s extensive network of physical clinics and Amazon’s technological capabilities, the company aims to provide a seamless and comprehensive healthcare experience.
