'Alexa, I Want to Talk to a Doctor.' — Amazon, Teladoc Launch Joint Telehealth Service

Audio consultations will launch immediately, and video visits are "coming soon."

Internet behemoth Amazon Inc. and Teladoc Health on Monday announced the launch of voice-activated virtual primary care services on Alexa-supported Echo devices.

The initial launch will provide 24/7 audio general medical services, with video visits "coming soon." The per visit cost will range from free with insurance to $75 without insurance, the two companies said in a joint statement.

"Teladoc Health's collaboration with Amazon is yet another step in breaking down barriers to healthcare access," said Donna Boyer, chief product officer for Purchase, New York-based Teladoc Health.

"By introducing and integrating our virtual first care experience with Echo devices, we are providing an innovative and convenient way for users to connect with a doctor," Boyer said. "We are meeting consumers where they are, to continue to deliver value and high-quality care to members."

To activate the platform, users will tell their Echo: "Alexa, I want to talk to a doctor." Echo will connect with the Teladoc call center and users will get a call back on their Echo from a Teledoc doctor for virtual visits for non-emergency care.   

"We're excited to work with Teladoc Health to offer our customers an easy, hands-free way to connect with a doctor," said Debra Chrapaty, Amazon Alexa COO.

"Whether they're taking care of their sick child in the middle of the night or wanting to ask a doctor about allergy symptoms in between meetings during the day, we hope this experience will help customers find the convenient help they want from the comfort of their own home," she said.