Amazon will let people too busy to make a doctor appointment consult with a clinician on a quick video chat or through direct messages through its Amazon Virtual Clinic and get prescriptions to help address colds, coughs, or the flu.
With Amazon Clinic, you can now complete a short form with your current symptoms and basic health history, and the program will connect you with a licensed clinician through a secure messaging portal or scheduled video visit — all without an appointment or insurance. From there, a clinician will create a personalized treatment plan which may include prescription medication. Amazon can fill your prescription and send it directly to you with free delivery through Amazon Pharmacy.
“With conditions like the flu, getting treatment quickly after the onset of symptoms really matters,” said Dr. Nworah Ayogu, chief medical officer and general manager of Amazon Clinic. “By quickly connecting with a provider who understands their condition, customers can explore options for relief and get the care that’s right for them in a matter of minutes or hours, not days or weeks.”
The service provides a quick way to access health care for minor illnesses that otherwise may go untreated because of the hassle of seeing a doctor. Conversely, having Amazon Clinic handle these issues lifts some of the burden off of medical professionals — especially during flu season. Clinic includes the consultation and necessary follow-ups if it’s more serious.
“After consulting with a customer, a clinician may order a flu or COVID test and, depending on the severity and time frame of symptoms, potentially prescribe an antiviral like Paxlovid or Tamiflu,” said Dr. Ayogu. “These medications can reduce the time you’re infectious, which is an important health concern.”
Amazon Clinic launched in 2022 and offers 24/7 virtual health care in all 50 states and Washington D.C. through third-party licensed clinicians. Amazon offers appointments for 35 common medical conditions like acid reflux, acne, asthma, high blood pressure, pink eye, seasonal allergies, and more.