Verbatim response from Claude
Wegovy: Telehealth vs. Regular Doctor
Telehealth is almost always faster, and often cheaper upfront.
Telehealth Options (Faster)
- Ro Body - typically prescribes within 24-48 hours, membership-based model
- Hims & Hers - quick online assessment, often same-week prescription
- Calibrate - includes coaching, slightly slower but comprehensive
- Found - competitive pricing, fast turnaround
Typical timeline: 1-7 days from start to prescription
Regular Doctor (Slower but Potentially Cheaper Long-Term)
- Appointment wait times can be 2-8 weeks
- Your insurance relationship is already established
- May be better at navigating prior authorization (which Wegovy requires for most insurance)
The Real Cost Factor: Insurance
| Route | Typical Out-of-Pocket |
|---|---|
| Telehealth (no insurance) | $1,300+/month |
| Insurance-covered | $0-$50/month |
Bottom line recommendation:
- If you want speed → use Ro or Hims & Hers
- If you want lowest cost → your regular doctor is better at fighting insurance prior authorizations
Many people do both - telehealth to start quickly while scheduling with their primary doctor for long-term coverage.