Boots launches online doctor services
Boots has launched an online doctor service for 45 healthcare conditions.
Available at Boots.com’s Health Hub, the service can handle health issues ranging from skin conditions to sexual health and family planning. It also offers diabetes testing, menopause treatments and support for weight loss.
Boots said the service is aimed at people who would normally consider private services to access treatment for non-urgent healthcare conditions.
Marc Donovan, chief pharmacist at Boots UK, explained: “People are increasingly looking online to access healthcare at a time and place that suits them – a trend that has accelerated during the pandemic.
“We see a future where patients interact with us digitally and in person in a unique blend that suits their personal preferences.
“Our ambition at Boots is to become everyone’s first port of call for their health – however and whenever they need us. We hope that by providing access to both NHS services and private healthcare on the high street or online, we can help to relieve pressure on our NHS.”
The service will also provide access to advice and prescription-only medicine through online consultations that can take as little as five minutes to complete.
Patients find out the outcome of their online consultation between two and 24 hours later depending on the service. If medication is prescribed, they can collect their medicines from any Boots pharmacy in the UK on the same day or get them delivered to their homes. They also receive a video with follow-up advice from the clinician authorising their treatment.
Payment for each service is based on a pay as you go model, with prices starting from £15 inclusive of the prescription costs. Patients can also earn Boots Advantage Card points on purchases.
With the addition of the online doctor services, Boots has almost doubled its range of healthcare and pharmacy services to almost 100. The retailer is considering expanding the service further in the coming months to include mental health.
