12:00, 15 October 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
Amazon Pharmacy has taken another step into the healthcare space with the launch of in-office prescription kiosks, starting in Los Angeles. Beginning this December, patients visiting select One Medical clinics in areas like Downtown LA, Beverly Hills, and Long Beach can pick up their medications within minutes of their appointment – no pharmacy detour required.
Dubbed Amazon Pharmacy Kiosks, the service aims to tackle a long-standing issue: up to one-third of prescriptions in the U.S. go unfilled, often because patients don’t have easy access to a pharmacy. It’s a particularly pressing issue in so-called pharmacy deserts, where neighbourhoods are underserved.
“We know that when patients have to make a separate stop after seeing their doctor, many prescriptions never get filled,” said Hannah McClellan, VP of Operations at Amazon Pharmacy. “By bringing the pharmacy directly to the point of care, we're removing a critical barrier.”
Patients who have a prescription sent to Amazon Pharmacy can choose kiosk pickup when placing their order in the Amazon app. After payment, they receive a QR code, which they scan at the kiosk, here their medication is ready in minutes.
Patients also have the opportunity to speak with a licensed pharmacist via a secure video or phone consultation.
The kiosks are stocked based on what’s commonly prescribed at that clinic, which thanks to Amazon’s logistical know-how are supported by the same pharmacists who power its online pharmacy.
Dr. Andrew Diamond, Chief Medical Officer at One Medical, called the move a “meaningful step” in improving outcomes, especially for conditions needing quick treatment, like infections.
For more info or to check if your clinic is participating, visit: pharmacy.amazon.com/kiosks.
At Smiley Movement, we elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this post.
Medicines for Humanity. This international charity works to reduce child mortality in impoverished communities by improving access to essential medicines and healthcare services. Find out more.
The King's Fund. An independent charity working to improve health and care in England. They carry out in-depth research and policy analysis to make healthcare more equitable and accessible for all. Learn more here.
Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation. This non-profit helps underinsured patients in the U.S. afford critical medications by offering co-pay assistance and advocating for affordable healthcare access. Support them here.
This article aligns with the SDG Good Health and Wellbeing and Industry, Infrastructure, Innovation.
