Amazon Pharmacy has announced the launch of in-office kiosks that allow patients to obtain their prescriptions immediately after a medical appointment. The initiative aims to address the issue of unfilled prescriptions, which is a significant problem in the United States. According to Amazon Pharmacy, nearly one-third of prescriptions are never filled each year, and half of medications for chronic conditions are not taken as prescribed, resulting in missed opportunities for better health outcomes and increased health care costs.
The new Amazon Pharmacy Kiosks will first be available starting December 2025 at One Medical locations in the greater Los Angeles area, including Downtown L.A., West L.A., Beverly Hills, Long Beach, and West Hollywood. There are plans to expand to additional One Medical offices and other sites in the future.
Patients using the kiosks will receive the same clinical service as at a traditional pharmacy counter but can skip the extra trip and waiting time. After a provider writes a prescription, patients can choose Amazon Pharmacy for in-office kiosk pickup. Using the Amazon app, they can check out, pay, and receive a QR code to scan at the kiosk. Medications are typically ready within minutes, and an Amazon pharmacist will review each prescription.
Hannah McClellan, vice president of operations at Amazon Pharmacy, said, "We know that when patients have to make an extra trip to the pharmacy after seeing their doctor, many prescriptions never get filled. By bringing the pharmacy directly to the point of care, we're removing a critical barrier and helping patients start their treatment when it matters most—right away."
The kiosks are stocked with medications tailored to the prescribing patterns of each office location, powered by Amazon’s logistics and technology. Patients can also access upfront costs, including available discounts and estimated insurance copays, through the Amazon app. For additional support, customers can consult with Amazon Pharmacy licensed pharmacists via secure video or phone.
Dr. Andrew Diamond, chief medical officer at One Medical, commented on the impact of the new service: "As clinicians, we see firsthand how delays in starting medication can impact treatment outcomes. The ability to know a patient is leaving our office with their medication in hand—especially for conditions requiring immediate treatment like infections—can make a meaningful difference in their care journey."
The introduction of these kiosks is also aimed at addressing "pharmacy deserts," where about one in four neighborhoods lack easy access to essential medications. Even when pharmacies are nearby, many customers face delays or frustration, with only about half reporting that prescriptions are quickly filled at retail pharmacies.
McClellan added, "We've designed the kiosk experience to be simple, fast, and patient-centered. But we also understand that patients sometimes have questions about their medications. That's why every kiosk transaction includes access to our team of pharmacists who can provide consultation via video or phone, just as they would at a traditional pharmacy counter."
Amazon Health Services states that this technology could improve medication access across various health care settings by connecting diagnosis, prescription, and treatment in one streamlined process.