Costco Wholesale has expanded its partnership with online healthcare services provider Sesame to offer weight-loss programs, including prescription drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, to its members.
For $179 over three months, Costco members can access the program, which includes guidance on diet, exercise, and lifestyle modifications, as well as potential medication prescriptions. While the subscription doesn’t cover medication or lab costs, clinicians may help reduce expenses through pre-authorizations.
Demand for GLP-1 agonists, effective for diabetes and obesity, has surged in recent years. Costco, with 130 million members, aims to meet this demand through its partnership with Sesame. This move follows Costco’s previous collaboration with Sesame to offer outpatient medical care.
In the wake of the pandemic, other big-box retailers like Amazon and Walmart have also entered the healthcare sector. Amazon offers virtual primary care for Prime members, while Walmart operates primary care centers and sells GLP-1 drugs through its pharmacies.
