I couldn't believe I had to wait two additional months to see my primary doctor after rescheduling an appointment last year. But I discovered that what I find extraordinary (and annoying) is now the norm. The average wait for an appointment with a physician for new patients is 26 days, according to a 2022 survey of 15 metropolitan areas.
Technology has a solution for this problem: telehealth appointments. These services utilize a network of doctors and medical professionals to see you and prescribe medications after an initial consultation and some lab tests. But which of these services is right for you? Here is a rundown of some of the most popular pharmacies and what they offer.
LillyDirect
Shortly after its weight loss medication, Zepbound, was approved last November, drug manufacturer Eli Lilly created LillyDirect. Through that service, you can get the new injectable weight loss drug, the company's migraine injection treatment (Emgality), and several formulations of insulin.
Cost: Prices and payment options depend on the telehealth provider, plus medications
What's covered by insurance? Medications might be covered depending on your plan.
Ro
You've likely seen Ro's commercials during sporting events, which makes sense as they specialize primarily in men's sexual health. After speaking with a doctor or nurse practitioner in Ro's network about your symptoms, they will likely prescribe you a generic version of any number of popular prescriptions used to treat hair loss, fertility, erectile dysfunction, eczema, weight loss, and herpes. They also offer multivitamins, testosterone support, and other over-the-counter items.
Cost: A telehealth consultation is free.
What's covered by insurance? Ro doesn't accept insurance for their generic versions of their sexual health products, but they list their prices here.
Hims/Hers
Much like Ro, Hims has generic prescriptions and supplements for sexual wellness (including toys) and hair loss, but they also offer medications to address mental health. Their sister store, Hers, offers many of the same products, with many targeted toward women's needs.
Cost: An initial telehealth consultation is free.
What's covered by insurance? Hims/Hers doesn't accept insurance for their generic versions of their sexual health products.
Henry Meds
While most services will use a network of pharmacies to fulfill your order, Henry works with third-party compounding pharmacies to process a patient's prescription for insomnia, testosterone, diabetes, and weight loss. Their offerings have the same active ingredient as Ozempic and Rybelsus in oral form and tirzepatide (Mounjaro's active ingredient) injections, all claimed to be FDA-approved, for a lower price than their competitors.
Cost: Prices vary depending on treatment and include medication
What's covered by insurance? Henry Meds does not accept any insurance.
LifeMD
LifeMD puts you in touch with a primary or urgent care physician through their app or website and can send any prescribed medications (unless they're controlled substances) to your door or pharmacy. It will also send a nurse to your home to complete any necessary lab work, or you can visit any member of their network of testing facilities.
Cost: Plans start at $99 without insurance
What's covered by insurance? Medications might be covered, but they also offer a prescription discount program.
EverlyWell
EveryWell offers telehealth visits for everyday symptoms like rashes, stomach upset, headaches, and cold-like symptoms with a licensed board-certified nurse practitione. It also sends any necessary prescriptions to the pharmacy of your choice. EverlyWell also offers a service called EverlyWell+, which sends medical tests, ranging from food sensitivities to STDs, to your doorstep.
Cost: $59 for a consultation without insurance, but insurance plans are accepted.
What's covered by insurance? Prices for consultations vary with your insurance plan.
PlushCare
PlushCare offers telehealth and prescription services for wellness visits, mental health, urgent care, sexual health, weight loss, and pediatric care within its app. You can even book same-day appointments seven days a week.
Cost: $16.99 monthly, with the first month free, plus copay for doctor appointments if insured. Appointments are $129 if uninsured. Medication costs are not included.
What's covered by insurance? Medications might be covered depending on your plan.
Amazon Pharmacy
Amazon Pharmacy simply wants to replace your local pharmacist. Tell them your medications and where you get them; they'll work with your pharmacy to deliver them to your door. Prime members get free two-day delivery.
Cost: Depends on your prescription and if it's covered by insurance.
What's covered by insurance? Amazon Pharmacy accepts most insurance plans.