Costco teams up with Sesame to bring ‘affordable’ telehealth to members

Editor's Note

Major warehouse corporation Costco has entered a partnership with virtual care company Sesame to expand its healthcare offerings to its members, Chief Healthcare Executive September 27 reports. This collaboration will reportedly allow Costco members to access Sesame's telehealth services at “affordable rates.”

David Goldhill, Sesame's CEO and a former entertainment executive, believes this partnership aligns with Costco's commitment to providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to its members. However, Costco CFO Richard Galanti said in a September 26 call that raising the cost of its membership is a “question of when, not if,” according to Becker’s.

For $29, Costco members will receive virtual primary care visits through Sesame. Additionally, Sesame offers health check-ups for $72, which include a lab panel and a virtual follow-up appointment with a healthcare provider. Costco members will also be able to access virtual mental health therapy for $79. Costco members will also receive 10% off all other Sesame services, according to Becker’s Health IT September 29. Sesame does not accept health insurance and targets individuals without insurance, those with high-deductible health plans, and those seeking cost-effective healthcare options.

This move by Costco reflects a growing trend of retailers expanding their presence in the healthcare industry, with companies like Amazon, CVS Health, and Walgreens Boots Alliance making significant investments in this sector.