Round-the-clock shifts can be obtained through Amazon’s website or app, the large retailer said Tuesday. There they can compare prices and response times before choosing a remote health care provider among several options.
The clinic, which does not accept health insurance, began its services a year ago, focused on consultations by text message, which are still available in 34 states of the Union.
Amazon says the clinic offers care for around thirty common health conditions.
Virtual health care, or telemedicine, has boomed with the COVID-19 pandemic. It remains a convenient medium for routine examinations or treatment of relatively minor problems such as urinary tract infection or acute conjunctivitis.
Amazon says its virtual clinics will also treat erectile dysfunction.
The company’s chief of medicine, Dr. Nworah Ayogu, said on his blog that the clinic seeks to remove barriers to care for “everyday health concerns.”
“As a physician, I have seen firsthand that patients want to be healthy, but lack the time, tools, or resources to effectively manage their care,” Ayogu wrote.
Amazon said that consultations by message cost $35 on average, while video appointments cost $75.
It’s cheaper than in-person appointments, which often exceed $100 for patients without health insurance or high-deductible coverage.
While virtual appointments may allow for greater access, some doctors fear it will lead to fragmentation of care and make it difficult to track patient records. That could happen if a patient has a GP who is not aware of the virtual appointment with another professional.
In addition to virtual care, Amazon sells prescription drugs through its Amazon Pharmacy business and has expanded its presence in patient care.
