TL/DR –
Costco has partnered with online health marketplace Sesame to offer Costco members low-cost medical visits. Members will have access to both in-person or virtual visits, including a $29 virtual primary care visit, a $79 virtual mental health therapy visit, and a $72 health assessment, among others. However, the article suggests that while this partnership could be beneficial for those without insurance or with high deductibles, it does not justify Costco’s membership fees unless the individual regularly visits the doctor.
Costco Membership: More Than Bulk Buys and Bargain Vacations
A Costco membership provides numerous deals that help you save more. From bulk cereal purchases to bargain vacations, Costco members can also buy jewelry and even cars. Now, the warehouse club is introducing a new advantage to its membership.
Costco’s Low-Cost Medical Visits for Members
Costco aims to be a one-stop destination for both shopping and medical care. Famous for Kirkland Signature products and the classic $1.50 hot dog-soda combo, Costco will also offer health services.
Costco is partnering with Sesame, an online health marketplace, to provide affordable care to those uninsured or with high insurance deductibles. Costco members can book in-person or virtual visits for medical care at a significantly low cost, provided they pay cash for their services rather than use health insurance coverage.
Members can take advantage of “Sesame’s best pricing” available in all 50 US states, including a $29 virtual primary care visit, a $72 health assessment with a standard lab panel and a follow-up with a provider via a virtual visit, and a $79 virtual mental health therapy visit. Additionally, they get 10% off on in-person appointments and other Sesame services booked through Sesame.
To avail this, members can visit the Costco website, provide their email address, and arrange a visit with a provider whenever convenient, including same-day visits, weekends, and outside of standard business hours.
Is Joining Costco for this New Benefit Worth It?
Access to healthcare can be challenging, particularly without good insurance. Those uninsured or with a high deductible could benefit from the Costco/Sesame partnership. But, without insurance coverage, one runs a significant risk. Therefore, it’s essential to check HealthCare.gov for insurance options first, as lack of coverage could lead to financial problems if one falls sick. The open enrollment for healthcare runs from Nov. 1, 2023, to Jan. 15, 2024.
If you’re insured but with a high deductible, or if coverage is unavailable for some reason, using Sesame benefits as a Costco member is beneficial. However, joining Costco exclusively for these benefits may not be worthwhile as you could book appointments directly through Sesame without paying the added costs of a Costco membership. The small price difference (about $8-10 more for in-person and telehealth visits) may not justify Costco’s annual membership fees (starting at $60).
However, if you’re considering whether Costco offers enough value and have to pay cash for some medical care, this new partnership with Sesame certainly makes it more appealing.
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