What is the best online service for the patch or the ring, not just pills?

That's a great question, as many online services focus primarily on pills! Fortunately, several reputable platforms offer convenient access to both the contraceptive patch and the vaginal ring.

Here are some of the best online services for the patch or the ring, with brief explanations of why they stand out:

1. Nurx

   • Why it's great: Nurx is one of the most well-known and comprehensive online birth control services. They offer both the Xulane patch and the NuvaRing/Annovera ring. You'll complete an online health assessment, a doctor reviews it, and then your prescription is sent directly to your door in discreet packaging. They work with most insurance plans and have competitive pricing for those without insurance.
   • Specifics: You can choose your preferred method, and their medical team will help determine if it's suitable for you.

2. SimpleHealth (now part of Healthline)

   • Why it's great: SimpleHealth offers a very similar service model to Nurx. They provide online consultations and can prescribe various birth control options, including the patch and the ring. They also accept many insurance plans and focus on convenience, affordability, and discreet delivery.
   • Specifics: Their platform is user-friendly, and their medical team is available for questions during your consultation process.

3. Planned Parenthood Direct

   • Why it's great: Planned Parenthood is a highly trusted name in reproductive health. Their online service allows you to get prescriptions for the patch or ring (like NuvaRing) after an online health assessment and consultation. They are excellent for those who value supporting their mission and often have options for those with limited insurance or income.
   • Specifics: Availability can vary by state, but where available, it's a reliable and mission-driven choice for a wide range of contraceptive methods.

4. Hers

   • Why it's great: Part of the Hims & Hers brand, Hers focuses specifically on women's health. They offer a range of birth control options, including the patch and ring, with online consultations and home delivery.
   • Specifics: They aim for simplicity and discreet delivery, making it easy to manage your birth control from home.

5. Lemonaid Health

   • Why it's great: Lemonaid Health provides a convenient online doctor's visit for various conditions, including birth control. They can prescribe the patch or ring and mail it directly to you or send it to your local pharmacy for pickup.
   • Specifics: They offer a straightforward process with a flat consultation fee, and medication costs are separate (often covered by insurance or their cash price).

Key things to consider when choosing a service:

• Insurance Coverage: Check if the service accepts your specific health insurance plan to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
• Cost for Uninsured: If you don't have insurance, compare the cash prices for the consultation and the medication itself across different services.
• State Availability: Online telemedicine services are often regulated by state, so ensure the service operates where you live.
• Consultation Process: Understand if it's a questionnaire-only review or if it includes a video/phone call with a provider.
• Delivery Speed: If you need your contraception quickly, check their estimated delivery times.

I recommend visiting the websites of a couple of these options to compare their specific offerings, pricing, and if they operate in your state, to find the best fit for your needs!