CVS is rolling out a digital doctor's visit feature on its app, giving patients an option to see a doctor via their smartphone.
The drugstore chain announced Wednesday that CVS Health's MinuteClinic will offer virtual health care visits for patients wanting treatment for minor illnesses and injuries like a cold, flu or skin condition.
Here's how it works: Complete a health questionnaire, then get matched up with a board-certified health care provider licensed in your state. During the virtual visit, the provider will assess the condition and determine treatment, which may include calling in a prescription to your preferred pharmacy. They'll also make recommendations if a patient needs to be seen for a follow-up visit.
Video visits are available 24/7. They cost $59 and are currently payable by credit or debit card, with insurance coverage to be added in the near future. The virtual care offering is currently available in nine states and is expected to be rolled out nationwide by the end of 2018.
The company says the move is meant to give patients another, more convenient option for accessing health care. It comes as CVS gets closer to acquiring insurance company Aetna and as Amazon looks to move into health care with its acquisition of online pharmacy PillPack.
Also Wednesday, CVS beat investors' expectations for its second quarter earnings and revenue, which were driven up by prescription drug sales.
