Hims is a telehealth platform that focuses on men’s health. Through Hims, you can get access to prescription medications and over-the-counter products for things like hair loss, erectile dysfunction, and skincare.
But is Hims covered by insurance? That’s a common question, and the answer isn’t always straightforward.
In this article, we’ll go over what Hims offers, how much it costs, and how its insurance policies work so you can decide whether it’s a good way for you to get the care you need.
What is Hims? A Comprehensive Overview
Hims is a telehealth service that connects you with licensed medical providers from the comfort of your own home.
Hims Telehealth Services
Hims offers a range of online services for men, including:
- Sexual health: erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation
- Hair loss
- Weight loss
- Mental health: anxiety, depression
- Skincare
Products and Treatments Offered
Hims provides access to medications, supplements, and other tools related to men’s wellness. Some examples include sildenafil for ED, finasteride for hair loss, and weight loss medications like compounded semaglutide, Ozempic, and Wegovy.
LegitScript Certification
Hims is certified by LegitScript, an organization that sets the standard for safety and transparency in online healthcare. This certification indicates that Hims meets certain regulatory and safety requirements.
Hims and Insurance: What You Need to Know
The short answer is that Hims doesn’t directly accept insurance. This is pretty common for telehealth platforms, especially those focused on keeping things simple and costs down.
Why? Dealing with insurance companies can be a real headache, adding to overhead and administrative hassles. That said, don’t give up hope just yet.
Even though Hims doesn’t take insurance directly, you might be able to use your HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account) to pay for prescriptions and consultations. Check with your HSA/FSA provider to be sure.
Cost Breakdown and Affordability
One of the biggest questions people have about telehealth services like Hims is, “How much will this really cost me?” Let’s break down the costs associated with Hims, so you can see if it fits your budget.
Medication Costs
Hims often offers medications at a fixed cost, and sometimes at a discounted rate. Here are a few examples (prices current as of October 2024):
- Weight Loss Medications:
- GLP-1 Injection: $165/month (with 12-month subscription)
- Compounded semaglutide: $165/month (with 12-month subscription)
- Ozempic: $1,799/month
- Wegovy: $1,999/month
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Medications:
- Sildenafil (generic Viagra): $22
- Tadalafil (generic Cialis): $24
- Hair Loss Medications:
- Finasteride + Minoxidil + Supplement Blend Chew: $35
- Topical Finasteride & Minoxidil spray: $35
- Rx Hair Loss Spray + Ketoconazole + Biotin: $39
- Oral Finasteride: $22
Consultation Fees
Hims typically charges a fee for the initial online consultation with a healthcare professional. This fee covers the cost of the doctor’s time to review your information and determine if a prescription is appropriate. Check the Hims website for the most up-to-date information on consultation fees, as they can vary.
Comparing Hims Costs to Traditional Healthcare
Even without insurance coverage, Hims can sometimes be more affordable than traditional healthcare. Think about it: a doctor’s visit co-pay, the cost of driving to the appointment, and the time you take off work can all add up. Plus, medications purchased at a local pharmacy might be more expensive than the fixed-cost options Hims provides. The convenience and time savings associated with Hims are definitely something to consider when evaluating the overall cost.
The Hims Telehealth Experience
Hims offers a streamlined telehealth experience, focusing on convenience and discretion.
Prescription and Delivery Process
Hims boasts an easy prescription and delivery process. You start with an online patient intake form, which kicks off the telehealth process. If a prescription is deemed appropriate by a Hims medical provider, your order is shipped to you in discreet packaging.
Customer Service and Support
Hims offers customer service through its app, email, and phone. The Hims app has a 4.8-star rating, and consults on the platform average 4.7 out of 5 stars. The company reports having over 1 million subscribers and offers more than 150 support videos. You can reach Hims customer support by calling (800) 368-0038.
Potential Drawbacks
While Hims aims for ease of use, keep in mind that video consultations may be required in some cases. Also, if you are hoping to use Hims to obtain Ozempic or Wegovy, be aware that these medications are currently in limited supply.
Alternatives to Hims and Insurance Options
If Hims doesn’t quite fit your needs or budget, there are other ways to get the care and prescriptions you’re looking for.
Other Telehealth Providers
Hims isn’t the only telehealth company out there. Lots of platforms offer similar services, and some might accept insurance. It really depends on the provider and the specific plan. Some telehealth companies specialize in certain areas, like mental health, while others offer a broader range of services. Do a little research to see what’s the best fit for you.
Traditional Healthcare System
Don’t forget the good old-fashioned doctor’s office! Seeing a doctor in person has its advantages. You can build a relationship with your physician, get a thorough physical exam, and use your insurance to cover the costs. However, it can also be more time-consuming and expensive, even with insurance, depending on your copay and deductible.
Prescription Discount Cards
Even if you don’t have insurance, or your insurance doesn’t cover a particular medication, prescription discount cards can be a lifesaver. These cards can significantly lower the cost of prescriptions, regardless of your insurance status. Check out GoodRx, Optum Perks, or SingleCare to compare prices and find the best deals.
Pros and Cons of Using Hims Without Insurance
Is Hims right for you? Here are some things to think about.
Pros
- Convenience and accessibility are key.
- You’ll know the prices up front.
- You might be able to get a discount.
- Your orders will arrive discreetly.
- It’s a fast, easy way to get a prescription filled.
Cons
- Hims doesn’t work directly with your insurance company.
- For some prescriptions, you might pay more than you would if you used your insurance.
- Hims has limited supplies of some medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Hims work like Viagra?
Hims offers medications containing sildenafil, the same active ingredient found in Viagra. So, yes, Hims medications for erectile dysfunction work in a similar way to Viagra by increasing blood flow to the penis.
How to increase blood flow to penis?
Several lifestyle changes can help improve blood flow to the penis, including regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and managing underlying health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Medications like those offered by Hims can also help.
Which pill is best to last longer in bed?
Medications containing sildenafil or tadalafil can help some men last longer in bed by improving erectile function. However, the “best” pill depends on individual needs and medical history. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to determine the right option.
How much does Hims cost per month?
The cost of Hims varies depending on the specific medication and subscription plan. It’s best to check the Hims website for current pricing information. Keep in mind that Hims does not currently accept insurance, so all costs are out-of-pocket.
Is Hims Ozempic legit?
Hims does not currently offer Ozempic. If you see a website claiming to sell Hims Ozempic, it’s likely a scam and should be avoided. Ozempic is a prescription medication that should only be obtained through a licensed healthcare provider.
Summary
Hims offers a convenient way to access telehealth services from the comfort of your own home. However, Hims does not directly accept insurance, so you’ll be responsible for the full cost of any consultations and medications.
When choosing a healthcare option, it’s important to consider your individual needs and financial situation. Think about how much you value convenience, how important it is to use your insurance benefits, and how much you’re willing to pay out-of-pocket.
Weighing the pros and cons of using Hims without insurance can help you make an informed decision about whether it’s the right choice for you.