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Amazon Rolls Out Prescription Vending Kiosks at One Medical Locations, Aiming to Boost Medication Adherence
Los Angeles, CA – Amazon is expanding its footprint in the healthcare sector with the introduction of on-site prescription vending machines, or kiosks, at its One Medical primary care offices. This initiative aims to streamline the process of picking up medications immediately after appointments, addressing the common issue of patients failing to fill their prescriptions.
Starting in December, Amazon Pharmacy Kiosks will debut in One Medical practices across the greater Los Angeles area, with plans for broader expansion in the near future. The company’s goal is to remove the barrier of a separate trip to a pharmacy, making it more convenient for patients to obtain their prescribed drugs and ensuring they receive timely treatment.
One Medical members attending in-person appointments can request prescription pickup directly through the Amazon app. The company states that most medications will be ready for collection within minutes of being prescribed. To utilize the service, patients must have an active Amazon Pharmacy account and attend an appointment at a participating One Medical location.
The Amazon app will provide transparent information on upfront costs and any applicable deductions before checkout. Patients also have the option to connect with an Amazon Pharmacy pharmacist via video or phone consultation directly through the app.
The kiosks will stock a range of common medications, including antibiotics, inhalers, and blood pressure medications. However, controlled substances and items requiring refrigeration will not be available through the vending machines.
While One Medical subscriptions typically cost $9 per month or $99 annually for Amazon Prime members ($199 for non-Prime members), Amazon is currently offering Prime members a $30 discount on memberships. Although virtual appointments are available for a one-off fee without a membership, use of the Amazon Pharmacy Kiosk during this initial launch period requires an in-person visit to a One Medical office. Amazon has confirmed there will be no additional fees for using these new machines, regardless of Prime membership status.