There is no denying that Amazon’s very existence improves people’s lives all across the world in significant ways. With Prime TV, Audible, Alexa, and Ring, Amazon provides us with entertainment, reading aloud to us, speaking to us, keeping us safe, and so much more.

Then, on November 15, Amazon revealed that it will assist with our healthcare needs as well when it launched Amazon Clinic in the United States, a brand-new virtual clinic for Prime members with common medical ailments.

In November 2020, Amazon launched Amazon Pharmacy, a full-service online pharmacy that offers Prime members 24/7 access and two-day delivery of prescription drugs. To help members choose the most inexpensive option, it compares the price of medications with and without insurance. The newest convenience was somewhat of a bright spot in a year when everything seemed to be at a standstill. We have all become used to a little more virtuality in our lives since then, whether you want to admit it or not, and the extreme ease it provides.

Perhaps this is one of the factors contributing to the rise in popularity of telemedicine visits since, let’s face it, who wants to drag themselves in person to an office with a UTI, pinkeye, or motion sickness?

The fact that Amazon is expanding its online pharmacy with Amazon Clinic shouldn’t come as a surprise. A message-based virtual care service that connects customers with affordable virtual care options when and how they need it — at home, after dinner, at the grocery store, or on the go — for more than 20 common health conditions, including allergies, acne, and hair loss — is described as the online retailer’s newest perk by the company.

Here’s how Amazon Clinic works for Prime members:

• Choosing your condition from the list will help.
• From the list of telehealth providers, pick a clinician.
• Fill out a brief questionnaire based on your health.
• Through a secure message-based portal, you are linked with the clinician for a consultation.

Following the session, the doctor will use the portal to send you a customized treatment plan that includes prescriptions for your favorite drugstore.

Only 32 states presently have access to Amazon Clinic, which offers upfront prices and treatment in only a few hours. The initial cost covers any prospective prescription expenses related to your condition. Health insurance is not accepted at the facility. Alternatively, you can pay a flat price and submit a receipt to your insurance for reimbursement, or you can use your FSA or HSA debit card.