It looks like Amazon is expanding with Amazon Care, a telemedicine service currently available only to its employees and their dependents in Washington state. Lately, the online clinic is hiring people in various business development posts to attract commercial enterprises and the public sector. The hunt for qualified people started last month.
Amazon’s creation of a new business development crew may signal that it wants to serve, not just its employees. The online shopping site is known for developing different products that it initially uses on its staff before offering it to the public.
An Amazon insider also reported that Amazon Care is now targeting health plans and various employers located in Washington state to talk about ways to expand. However, these plans may still be in the works and may not push through as well.
Amazon Care started in late 2019 as an online medical clinic for Amazon employees and dependents living in Washington. Amazon Care aims to improve primary care access through virtual doctor’s visits. It also offers home visits but not all areas are covered.
Just very recently, Amazon has explored the medical industry. It has acquired PillPack in 2018, which is a medication delivery service with a pharmacy team. Amazon has also included more health and wellness applications accessible through Alexa. Very recently, Amazon has launched a wearable health monitoring device called Halo. This handy device can track a person’s fitness and overall health vitals.
Because of the coronavirus pandemic, the need for telemedicine has dramatically improved. The industry was estimated to be worth $17 billion five years from now. Also, easing federal regulations has made it easier for doctors to conduct online clinics.
A month ago, Amazon Care expanded its coverage from just its Seattle headquarters to all departments and offices located across Washington State. Besides Amazon’s Halo, other health and fitness wearable devices are also expected to conquer the telemedicine healthcare industry.
Apple is the most popular brand with its wearable watches, while Google has Fitbit. All these devices need a health and fitness app and subscription service to link telemedicine services like Amazon Care.
According to Amazon, the new telemedicine jobs include signing bonuses, various benefits, and free training. Also, Amazon will open around a hundred new buildings in all fulfillment centers, sorting and delivery centers, and many other sites.
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