Intermountain announced Thursday the launch of new on-demand virtual care services designed to provide faster access to gout treatments and weight loss medications. The programs allow eligible patients in Utah and four other Western states to consult with clinical pharmacists via telephone and receive prescriptions delivered directly to their homes.
Gout Treatment Access and Requirements
The new gout treatment service aims to connect patients with care without the need for a traditional doctor's appointment. According to Intermountain, the service is available to patients 18 years or older residing in Utah, Colorado, Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, and Nevada.
The process begins with an online health assessment form. Once submitted, a clinical pharmacist is expected to contact the patient within a few business hours between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. MST. Intermountain noted that pharmacists will make up to two phone calls and one email attempt to reach a patient; however, they generally cannot provide a prescription without speaking to the individual first.
The service carries a $29 consultation fee in addition to the cost of medication, which is eligible for both FSA and HSA reimbursement.
Eligibility Criteria for Gout Care
To qualify for the gout service, Intermountain requires patients to meet specific medical criteria. Applicants must have an established gout diagnosis supported by blood work conducted within the last year. The service is not available to individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or attempting to become pregnant.
Additionally, patients cannot use the service if they have an active infection, signs of infection such as fever or chills, or if they are taking immunosuppressive medications. Recent surgery or injury to a joint exhibiting gout symptoms also disqualifies a patient from this specific on-demand pathway.
Available treatments through this service include Colchicine and NSAIDs. If the initial supply of medication runs out before a patient can see a primary healthcare provider, Intermountain noted that pharmacists can prescribe a temporary supply to bridge the gap until a follow-up appointment is completed.
Weight Loss Medication Program Details
Intermountain is also offering an on-demand service for weight loss medications, specifically focusing on GLP-1 products. Similar to the gout service, this program is available to adults 18 and older in Utah, Colorado, Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, and Nevada.
The weight loss service requires a $49 consultation fee plus the cost of medication. The service is also eligible for FSA and HSA payments. To qualify, patients must have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of over 30 to begin new treatment, or over 25 to continue existing treatment. Eligibility is also contingent upon the patient having seen a primary care provider within the last 12 months or scheduling a visit within the next 12 months.
As with the gout service, patients can expect a call from a clinical pharmacist within 24 to 48 hours of submitting their intake form to discuss treatment options and provide counseling regarding correct usage and potential side effects.
Medication Types and Insurance Limitations
The weight loss program focuses exclusively on commercially available GLP-1 products. Intermountain stated that the service will provide Zepbound (tirzepatide) injectable, Wegovy (semaglutide) injectable or tablet, and Foundayo tablet. The organization clarified that they do not offer compounded weight loss medications through this specific service.
For those using certain insurance, Intermountain noted that discounted pricing is available for Zepbound and Wegovy, and patients may receive manufacturer savings cards to lower costs. However, these savings cards cannot be applied if the patient uses government-funded insurance, such as Medicare, Medicaid, or Tricare.
Duration and Long-Term Management
The weight loss service is intended as a short-term management tool. Eligible participants can receive up to 19 months of commercially available injectable GLP-1 products, or until their BMI reaches 25 or below, whichever occurs first.
Intermountain emphasized that this on-demand service is not a substitute for comprehensive long-term care. The organization does not provide microdosing or taper-down treatments once a patient reaches their target weight; those specific medical services are intended to be managed by a primary care provider. Patients are expected to follow up with their regular physicians if they wish to continue treatment beyond the scope of the on-demand service.
Patient Support and Preparation
For both services, Intermountain requires patients to have specific information ready for their consultation, including prescription insurance details, a current medication list (including any drugs taken in the last 14 days), and relevant medical history.
If patients experience side effects or have concerns regarding prescribed medications from either service, they are instructed to contact a clinical pharmacist at 800-825-3547 or reach out to their nearest urgent care, primary care provider, or rheumatologist.
