Costco provides members with access to online medical services for Only $29.
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This new service is available through an agreement with Sesame, a direct-to-consumer healthcare marketplace. The company says Costco members can book health care services directly through their membership in all 50 states.
“The Costco brand is known for quality, great value and low prices,” Sesame co-founder and CEO David Goldhill said in a statement. “When it comes to health care, Sesame delivers the high quality, great value, and low prices that Costco members value when it comes to their care.”
The benefits that Costco members receive are as follows:
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Virtual Primary Care ($29).
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Health exam ($72) that includes a standard test panel and virtual follow-up consultation with a healthcare provider.
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Virtual Mental Health Therapy ($79).
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Get 10% off other Sesame services, including in-person appointments.
Also: Costco members can save money by purchasing gift cards online for less than sticker price
To access special discounted prices, Costco members must create an account with Sesame and verify their Costco membership via their Costco.com account, according to the statement.
Sesame does not accept health insurance, which helps keep prices down. Costco members can pay cash for their medical bills instead, whether they have a high-deductible insurance plan, are uninsured, or simply prefer lower prices.
KFF reports that the average annual health insurance premium in 2023 will be $8,435 for individual coverage and $23,968 for family coverage. Costco’s healthcare services can help you save a lot of money, but those who require specialized care may not be adequately covered for their needs.
Costco, healthcare competition intensifies
Costco isn’t the only retailer offering health care to its customers.
Amazon announced in August that virtual clinics would be available nationwide, CNN reported. Amazon Clinic opened last year and provides 24/7 access to Amazon.com and third-party health care providers through its mobile app. CNN added that CVS, Walgreens and Walmart also offer similar services.
GOBankingRates Details
This article was first published GOBankingRates.com: Costco Health Insurance: The Cheapest Option for Millions of Members — Should I Sign Up?
