Boots launches pay-as-you-go online doctor service

A new pay-as-you-go online doctor service, which will cover 45 conditions, has been launched by Boots.

The online consultation service covers non-urgent medical services such as sexual health, hair loss, weight loss, family planning, skin conditions, menopause and diabetes testing.

Patients are required to fill out an online questionnaire which is reviewed by a clinician. Within 24 hours patients will find out the outcome of the consultation, and if medication has been prescribed they’ll be able to pick it up from any UK Boots pharmacy the same day or have them delivered to their home. Additionally, they’ll receive a video with follow up advice.

Patients will pay for each service as and when they need it on a pay as you go model, with prices starting from £15 inclusive of the prescription costs.

Marc Donovan, chief pharmacist at Boot UK, said: “People are increasingly looking online to access healthcare at a time and place that suits them – a trend that has accelerated during the pandemic.

“Our expanding range of private digital healthcare services is integral to the work of our pharmacists in stores, who can dispense the medicines prescribed via our Online Doctor service as well as provide expert healthcare advice in person.

“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 theirhealth – 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.”

Boots has been rapidly expanding its online healthcare services through its Health Hub. It has recently added Leva Clinic to its list of app providers with a pain management programme available to download. The pharmacist says it will be continue to work with third party suppliers to expand its Health Hub with mental health being its next priority for service expansion.