In the past half a decade, telemedicine and consultation have seen new strides. Multiple commercial players have become part of this sector by engaging in the design of efficient telehealth services. One such recent entry has been made by the software development giant Amazon in India with the launch of Amazon Clinic, an online medical consultation service. This initiative aims to give users access to healthcare professionals for over 50 different medical conditions, representing a strategic move to broaden its digital services beyond e-commerce.
Launched on November 6, 2024, Amazon Clinic facilitates online consultations with registered and experienced medical practitioners. The service is currently available exclusively through the Amazon app for both Android and iOS users.
To access the services offered by Amazon Clinic, users must first create a profile that includes basic personal information such as their name, age, gender, and phone number. After completing the registration, they can schedule appointments for virtual consultations or, in certain cases, arrange in-person visits based on their medical needs.
There are multiple online formats such as video calls, audio calls, or chats to conduct the consultation. These options allow flexibility to the user based on their preference and convenience. Each session would typically lasts between 10 to 30 minutes, which would provide adequate time for the medical practitioner to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and prescribe treatment. Amazon would also be providing the users the option of connecting with doctors on an urgent basis in case of medical emergencies.
Along with accessibility, it becomes equally important to make these services affordable for all sections of society. Thus, the consultation fees would range around the nominal charge of Rs. 299 to Rs. 799, depending on the specialist’s expertise and the user’s needs. This would make them financially viable for even the economically weaker sections.
Amazon Clinic would not only offer affordable fees but also unlimited free-of-cost follow-up consultations for seven days following an initial visit. This pricing strategy positions Amazon Clinic competitively against established platforms like Practo or even the physical health clinics that charge anywhere near a thousand for a short duration of consultations with the doctor.
However, affordability in price does not mean compromise on the quality of teleconsultation. To ensure quality care to the highest extent, Amazon only inculcates doctors with a minimum of three years of telemedicine experience. Amazon would also aim to provide exhaustive medical services and include a multitude of medical specialists, such as dermatologists, gynecologists, pediatricians, and nutritionists. All this while protecting the privacy and security of patient information. Another standalone feature that Amazon provides is the integration of Amazon’s pharmacy service, allowing users to purchase prescribed medicine directly through the app.
Amazon Clinic is indeed a very strategic move into India’s emerging telehealthcare market. By harnessing its vast customer base, commercial goodwill, technological expertise, and logistical capabilities, Amazon strives to make healthcare solutions accessible and to promote continuous engagement with patients.