D2C telehealth could give a boost to Walgreens’ struggling pharmacy business

The news: Walgreens is expanding its direct-to-consumer (D2C) virtual healthcare services to reach consumers in 30 US states. The retailer launched Walgreens Virtual Healthcare last year in nine states.

  • Eligible patients can access cash-pay chat consultations or video visits with doctors or nurse practitioners for a range of common health issues such as the flu, COVID-19, acne, and pink eye.
  • Appointments are generally available within 15 minutes of the patient’s request.
  • Walgreens Virtual Healthcare also now includes lab services for wellness screenings and STD treatments.