Can You Get Ozempic Prescribed Through Sesame Care Telehealth?

Can You Get Ozempic Through Sesame Care?

Ozempic is a popular new medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. It belongs to a class of injectable drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists that work by mimicking the effects of the appetite-regulating hormone GLP-1.

Like other prescription medications, Ozempic requires approval by a licensed healthcare provider. Many patients are now turning to telehealth platforms like Sesame Care to obtain medications without an in-person doctor visit. But can you actually get Ozempic prescribed through Sesame?

In this comprehensive guide, learn how Sesame Care's telehealth services work, whether they prescribe Ozempic, what the process entails, how much it costs, and more.

Can Sesame Care Prescribe Ozempic?

Yes, Sesame Care's network of healthcare providers can prescribe Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs like Trulicity, Victoza, and Rybelsus. You'll speak with a licensed medical practitioner who will determine if Ozempic is appropriate for your health needs.

Online Visit for Evaluation

To obtain Ozempic from Sesame, you'll book an online doctor's visit through their website or app. During the virtual appointment, you'll consult with a healthcare provider about your health goals and why you're interested in Ozempic.

The doctor will ask about your medical history, diabetes status, current medications, and any conditions or risks that could impact using Ozempic. You can ask questions and discuss concerns during the visit as well.

Prescription if Approved

If the healthcare provider determines Ozempic is a suitable treatment option, they can write and send a prescription to the pharmacy of your choice. The prescription will be for up to a 30 days supply to start.

Not all patients who want Ozempic will be approved, however. The provider will only prescribe it if you meet medical guidelines based on your health profile.

Sesame Care Overview

Before explaining the Ozempic process specifically, let's look at how Sesame Care's telehealth platform works overall:

Same-Day Appointments

Sesame offers same-day and next-day video doctor visits with no wait times. Appointments can be booked 24/7 with their app or website.

Primary Care & Specialists

Choose from primary care doctors or specialists like endocrinologists, psychiatrists, dermatologists, and more. Visits are covered by most major insurances.

Prescription Delivery

If medications are prescribed, Sesame can send them right to your pharmacy of choice, including major chains or local drug stores.

Ongoing Care

Patients who need continuous care can establish an ongoing relationship with a regular Sesame provider.

Sesame Plus Membership

For unlimited free visits, you can pay $29/month for Sesame Plus membership. Otherwise, virtual visits cost $20-60 each.

Requirements to Get Ozempic Through Sesame

To obtain a prescription for Ozempic through a Sesame Care visit, you'll need to meet certain requirements for medical appropriateness. These include:

Diabetes Diagnosis

Ozempic is only FDA approved for treating type 2 diabetes, so you'll need a documented diagnosis to qualify. Bring any records you can to verify your condition.

A1C Over 7%

Your A1C hemoglobin should be over 7% while on other diabetes medications to be considered for Ozempic.

No Significant Complications

You should not have advanced diabetes complications like kidney disease or eye damage that could be worsened by Ozempic.

BMI Over 27

For weight loss purposes, you typically need a BMI of 27 or higher to qualify for Ozempic.

Failed Other Medications

Showing Ozempic is needed after failing to manage blood sugar sufficiently with metformin or other drugs boosts approval odds.

Meeting these criteria provides the best chance of being prescribed Ozempic through Sesame, but the final determination is up to the reviewing provider.

Sesame Care Ozempic Appointment Expectations

Wondering what to expect during a Sesame Care visit focused on getting Ozempic? Here are some common details:

15-20 Minute Consult

The initial telehealth consult will last around 15-20 minutes on average. Be ready to briefly explain your medical history and need for Ozempic.

Upload Relevant Records

Having lab test results, past prescriptions, diagnosis records, or other paperwork showing your eligibility for Ozempic is very helpful.

Prescribing Provider

Your Sesame Care visit will most likely be with a primary care physician or endocrinologist who can prescribe Ozempic.

Start With 30 Days

If approved, the initial Ozempic prescription will typically be for a 30 days supply to evaluate your tolerability.

Follow-Up Visits

Expect to have 1-2 week follow-ups to assess how you're responding and refill if going well.

Arriving prepared with a clear understanding of why you need Ozempic will help facilitate the process.

Cost of Ozempic Through Sesame

Wondering how much it will cost to get Ozempic through Sesame Care? There are a few factors that contribute to the overall price:

Sesame Visit Fee

The Sesame Care virtual visit itself costs $20-60 depending on your insurance, or is free with a Sesame Plus subscription.

Ozempic Retail Price

The typical retail cash price for Ozempic is around $850-1200 for a one month supply. But with insurance coverage, your out-of-pocket expense should be much lower.

Insurance Coverage

Most major insurers cover Ozempic at varying levels. Your specific copay or coinsurance depends on your plan details.

Savings Programs

The Ozempic manufacturer offers savings cards that can reduce your cost to as little as $25 per monthly fill. Ask your Sesame provider about access.

Altogether you can expect to pay around $50-150 or so out-of-pocket each month if approved for Ozempic through Sesame Care.

Pros of Using Sesame Care for Ozempic

Why might you consider utilizing Sesame Care's services to obtain Ozempic rather than seeing your regular doctor?

Convenience

The ability to complete consultations online from home on your schedule makes the process very convenient.

Fast Access

You can typically get an appointment within 1-2 days and medication quickly after that.

Potential Cost Savings

If you lack insurance or have high deductibles, Sesame can be cheaper than an in-office appointment in some cases.

Fewer Barriers

Those unable to easily access their regular doctor can overcome transportation, mobility, anxiety, or other barriers.

For fast, easy access to medications like Ozempic, Sesame Care provides advantages over traditional office visits.

Potential Downsides to Sesame Care

While using Sesame Care for Ozempic offers perks like convenience, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider:

Not Guaranteed Approval

There's no certainty telehealth providers will prescribe Ozempic. In-person doctors who know you may be more willing.

Out-of-Pocket Cost

Without insurance, Sesame visits and Ozempic will be very expensive. Even with insurance you'll have some cost.

Follow-Up Difficulties

Coordinating needed lab work and ongoing follow-ups after starting Ozempic may be trickier fully remotely.

Insurance Hassles

Getting telehealth visits approved by insurers can involve paperwork and logistical challenges at times.

While still a solid option, relying fully on telehealth for Ozempic has some drawbacks to be mindful of as well.

Alternatives to Sesame Care

In addition to Sesame, there are other telemedicine companies that can get you access to medications like Ozempic online. Some top options include:

Teladoc

One of the largest telehealth providers. Visit fees range from $40-200 based on your plan.

Helloalpha

Specializes in men's health concerns like testosterone and ED. Visits are $39-129.

K Health

Offers primary care with fast appointment availability. Visit pricing runs $19-89.

PlushCare

Connects patients with doctors and psychologists. Appointments cost $99-200 per visit.

Research which telehealth option best fits your specific circumstances and medication needs.

In-Person Medical Care Still Needed

Although Sesame Care provides convenient access to medications like Ozempic, it should not fully replace in-person medical care with your doctor.

Be sure to still see your regular physician for essential exams, lab work, health screenings, vaccinations, and chronic condition management. Telehealth works best alongside ongoing in-office care.

The Takeaway

Sesame Care offers a way for patients to obtain medications like Ozempic online. But approval is not guaranteed - your medical profile must demonstrate an appropriate need for Ozempic to qualify.

Utilize Sesame Care's services for convenience but maintain your existing doctor relationship as well. With the right qualifications, Sesame can facilitate digital access to medications that improve management of diabetes, obesity, and other chronic conditions.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.