Amazon recently announced that it will offer Amazon Prime subscribers discounted One Medical memberships for an additional $9 per month ($99 annually). This announcement comes roughly one year after Amazon purchased One Medical, a virtual and in-person primary care service. A One Medical annual subscription currently costs $199. Amazon Prime members who sign up will receive One Medical at a $100 discount and can add up to five additional family members to their subscription for $6 per month per person.
“When it is easier for people to get the care they need, they engage more in their health, and realize better health outcomes. That’s why we are bringing One Medical’s exceptional experience to Prime members—it’s health care that makes it dramatically easier to get and stay healthy.”
– Neil Lindsay, senior vice president, Amazon Health
One Medical will offer subscribers 24/7 care, prescription renewals, specialist referrals, online appointment bookings and medical record releases. While One Medical subscribers are eligible for virtual primary care visits, their subscription fee does not cover in-person visits or other care that may include copays and other costs, depending on an individual’s health insurance.
Employer Takeaway
Amazon’s latest announcement further deepens the retailer’s presence in the health care industry. Through its acquisition of One Medical, Amazon gained access to the employer benefits market, as One Medical works with more than 8,500 companies throughout the United States. Last year, Amazon launched Amazon Clinic to treat common conditions like hair loss and allergies, and, in 2020, it started Amazon Pharmacy.
Health care accessibility continues to be a barrier for many Americans as health care costs have increased dramatically over the past two decades. Making One Medical available to Prime members at a discounted price is another example of Amazon’s efforts to make health care more affordable and accessible in the United States.
Employee Health and Benefits
