Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) is making a significant move in the healthcare industry by introducing video telemedicine visits in all 50 states to its virtual clinic, which was launched last year. The e-commerce giant aims to deepen its presence in care delivery through this expansion.
Customers can now access Amazon’s virtual clinic at any time through the Amazon website or app. The platform allows users to compare prices and response times from various telemedicine providers before selecting the most suitable one.
Originally launched last fall with a focus on text message-based consultations, the clinic will continue to offer this service in 34 states. However, the inclusion of video visits is expected to enhance the accessibility and convenience of the healthcare service.
Amazon’s virtual clinic is not insurance-based and offers care for more than 30 common health conditions, ranging from minor ailments like sinus infections and pink eye to more complex issues like COVID-19 and acid reflux. Additionally, the clinic provides treatments for motion sickness, seasonal allergies, and various sexual health conditions, including erectile dysfunction. Furthermore, it offers birth control and emergency contraception.
Dr. Nworah Ayogu, the Chief Medical Officer of Amazon, stated in a blog post that the clinic aims to break down barriers preventing people from effectively managing their everyday health concerns. The virtual visits are priced at $35 on average for messaging-based consultations and $75 for video visits. These costs are significantly lower than many in-person visits, making healthcare more accessible for those without insurance or with high deductibles.
Despite the convenience and affordability of virtual care, some doctors express concerns about potential care fragmentation. They worry that patients might visit multiple providers for different health issues, leading to a lack of coordination in managing overall health.
Beyond the virtual clinic, Amazon is actively involved in the healthcare sector. The company sells prescription drugs through its Amazon Pharmacy business and has been expanding its in-patient care services. Earlier this year, Amazon acquired One Medical, a membership-based primary care provider, for $3.9 billion. One Medical offers both in-person care and virtual visits, bolstering Amazon’s position in the healthcare market.
The acquisition of One Medical faced scrutiny from anti-monopoly groups, which raised concerns about patient privacy and the potential for Amazon to gain more dominance in the healthcare marketplace. The Federal Trade Commission did not block the deal but did not rule out the possibility of future challenges.
Amazon’s CEO, Andy Jassy, who succeeded founder Jeff Bezos in 2021, sees healthcare as a significant growth opportunity for the company. As Amazon continues to expand its healthcare offerings, the industry is likely to experience further disruptions and innovations.
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Author Faith Yakubu 
