Amazon Launches New Virtual Health Service for Children

Amazon Launches Virtual Health Service for Children

Amazon has announced a pay-per-visit virtual health service called Amazon One Medical for children aged 2 to 11 years. The company charges $29 for messaging-based visits and $49 for video visits.

Access Without Membership

The use of the Amazon One Medical service does not require a membership and can assist in treating more than 10 skin issues in children, including eye diseases, lice and eczema, insect bites, and contact dermatitis. Additionally, it covers the renewal of EpiPens and asthma medications.

Amazon's family doctor and national medical director Dr. Natasha Bhuyan stated, “This service is designed not to replace the relationship with a pediatrician, but to provide a stopgap solution for parents in emergencies and time constraints.”

Innovation with Medicine Vending Machines

Starting from Los Angeles, Amazon has begun to introduce prescription medication vending machines in its One Medical clinics. These kiosks include commonly prescribed medications such as antibiotics, inhalers, and blood pressure medications.

The new vending machines could threaten traditional pharmacy businesses. For instance, while Rite Aid has closed a significant number of stores, CVS has shut down more than 1,000 stores since 2021, and Walgreens closed 500 stores last year.