Optum Now
Optum Now is the direct-to-consumer virtual care platform operated by Optum, the healthcare services division of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) — the largest health insurer in the United States. The virtual care platform launched in 2023, with weight management services added in 2024. Unlike most telehealth GLP-1 startups, Optum Now takes an insurance-first, brand-name-only approach: no compounded medications, no cash-pay shortcuts.
Overview
- Consultation Model
- Hybrid
- Headquarters
- Eden Prairie, MN
- Shipping
- 3-5 business days
- Lab Testing
- No
- Prescriber Info
- licensed providers.
- Founded
- 2023
Pros
- $45/month unlimited virtual visits
- Available in all 50 states
- Video consultations (not async-only)
- Deep integration with UnitedHealthcare for seamless insurance coordination
- Lab ordering available through Quest Diagnostics partnership
- Behavioral health network access for patients who need psychological support alongside weight management
Cons
- No compounded GLP-1 options
- Not a specialized obesity medicine practice
- Tied to the UnitedHealth Group ecosystem, which has faced criticism over prior authorization denial rates and conflicts of interest across insurance, PBM, and care delivery
- Relatively new to weight management (added 2024)
- No in-person option for patients who prefer or need hands-on clinical evaluation
- Vertical integration cuts both ways