Amazon launches prescription vending machines at One Medical clinics in Los Angeles

Core Insights - Amazon is launching prescription drug kiosks at One Medical offices in Los Angeles, aiming to disrupt traditional pharmacy businesses [1][3] - The kiosks, operated by Amazon Pharmacy, dispense prescriptions within minutes of a doctor's visit, addressing the issue of unfilled prescriptions due to extra trips to pharmacies [3][6] - This initiative comes as pharmacy chains like Rite Aid, CVS, and Walgreens face declining drug margins and increased competition from retailers like Amazon and Walmart [3][4] Company Strategy - Amazon has been expanding into the U.S. healthcare industry, acquiring PillPack in 2018 for approximately $750 million and One Medical in 2022 for $3.9 billion [5] - The company restructured its healthcare businesses into six units earlier this year to enhance innovation and speed [6] - The kiosks will initially be available at specific One Medical locations, with plans to expand to more offices and environments where quick access to medication is beneficial [6] Kiosk Operation - Each kiosk can stock hundreds of prescriptions tailored to specific locations, including common medications like antibiotics and blood pressure treatments [2] - Patients must have their prescriptions sent to Amazon Pharmacy for verification before using the kiosk, which includes a final check by a remote pharmacist [7] - The kiosks are designed to complement pharmacists' roles rather than replace them, allowing for video or phone consultations with pharmacists [8]