The Vitamin Shoppe launches telehealth service

As retailers target healthcare consumers, The Vitamin Shoppe launches Whole Health Rx, a telehealth service. It connects customers with licensed medical providers to assess their medical history, questionnaires, and objectives for medication approval. Initially, weight management drugs like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Rybelsus are offered. Subscriptions start at $219 monthly (introductory) and $269 (regular), no insurance required.

Following drugstore pharmacists, other retailers expand into healthcare. Best Buy partnered with Mass General Brigham for home care products. Amazon introduced RxPass for discounted prescriptions and services for chronic conditions.

Besides weight loss meds, The Vitamin Shoppe promotes protein, probiotic, and fiber supplements for weight loss with essential nutrient support. However, some retailers face healthcare sector challenges. Walmart closed its 51 medical centers and virtual healthcare due to profitability, while Amazon shut down some One Medical offices post-acquisition to cut costs.