Virtual Docs Coming To A Walgreens Near You

By Katie Wike, contributing writer

Walgreens and MDLive announced a partnership that will allow pharmacy customers to visit with a doctor virtually for under $50.

Walgreen’s website users will soon have access to a virtual visit with a doctor anywhere on their mobile phone. Through a partnership with MDLive, the pharmacy chain’s app will allow users to meet with a board certified physician for consultations on common ailments, such as upper respiratory infections, earaches, sore throats, and rashes. iHealth Beat reports these appointments will last about 15 minutes and cost users $49.

“Offering mobile and virtual access to board-certified doctors is a natural extension of the robust range of health services that Walgreens already offers,” said Dr. Harry Leider, chief medical officer of Walgreens in a press release. “We’re delighted to work with MDLIVE to provide our patients with a leading telehealth solution that will allow them to conveniently address their health conditions and needs with a medical professional.”

Although the pharmacy cautions that this should not replace an annual visit to your doctor, the virtual visits will be available 24/7. More than 2,000 Florida doctors are available to speak with patients through MDLive and the company expects that number to greatly increase through their partnership with Walgreens.

“We are thrilled to work with Walgreens to offer consumers more choice for convenient, quality and cost-effective care,” said Randy Parker, CEO of MDLIVE. “For the first time, a drugstore’s website and mobile app users can share the convenience of accessing a board-certified doctor who can also e-prescribe medication when appropriate, via a secure, online video platform.”

The service is currently offered to customers in Michigan and California but Walgreens plans to expand its use in the future.