Amazon Finally Launches Amazon Pharmacy During Coronavirus

E-commerce giant Amazon has finally announced the launch of Amazon Pharmacy, the company’s online and mobile prescription medicine ordering and fulfillment service.

It was over two years ago that Amazon made its $753 million purchase of the prescription medicine delivery service PillPack.

With Amazon Pharmacy, customers will use a secure pharmacy profile where they can add their insurance information, manage prescriptions and choose payment options.

Users are also provided with “self-service help” tools on Amazon’s portal, and they also have the option to speak to pharmacists over the phone for advice: “Friendly and knowledgeable pharmacists are available 24/7 to answer questions about medications.”

Amazon Pharmacy looks to be a U.S.-only launch at the moment.

“As more and more people look to complete everyday errands from home, pharmacy is an important and needed addition to the Amazon online store,” said Doug Herrington, senior vice president of North American Consumer at Amazon, in a statement.

“PillPack has provided exceptional pharmacy service for individuals with chronic health conditions for over six years. Now, we’re expanding our pharmacy offering to Amazon.com, which will help more customers save time, save money, simplify their lives, and feel healthier.”

Amazon is also rolling out special features for Prime members with those who are subscribed to Amazon’s premium membership tier can receive unlimited, free two-day delivery on Amazon orders.

Prime members will also be able to save on medications when they pay without insurance and can receive the same discounts at 50,000 other participating pharmacies nationwide. The Amazon Prime prescription savings benefit can save members up to 80% off generic and 40% off brand name medications when paying without insurance. Prime members can access their prescription savings at checkout.

Amazon customers will be able to order medications online that include branded and generic versions and different form factors and dosages — and order them online.

“We understand the importance of access to affordable medication, and we believe Prime members will find tremendous value with the new Amazon Prime prescription savings benefit,” said Jamil Ghani, vice president, Amazon Prime, in a statement. “Our goal is for Prime to make members’ lives easier and more convenient every day, and we’re excited to extend the incredible savings, seamless shopping experience, and fast, free delivery members know and love with Prime to Amazon Pharmacy.”

Disclaimer: We have no position in any of the companies mentioned and have not been compensated for this article.