Costco Weight Loss Program: Save Big on Ozempic & Wegovy with Sesame

Looking for affordable weight loss solutions? Costco's new partnership with Sesame might be your answer! Starting April 2024, Costco members can access discounted weight loss programs featuring popular medications like Ozempic and Wegovy for just $179 every three months. Here's the deal: You'll get virtual doctor visits, personalized plans, and ongoing support - but remember, the actual medication costs aren't included. We'll break down exactly how this program works, who it's best for, and whether it can truly save you money compared to traditional weight loss treatments.

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• 1、Costco and Sesame Team Up for Affordable Weight Loss Solutions
• 2、Meet Sesame - Your New Healthcare Best Friend
• 3、Getting Started: Your Step-by-Step Guide
• 4、The Big Question: Will This Actually Save You Money?
• 5、Who Benefits Most From This Program?
• 6、Important Considerations Before You Sign Up
• 7、Final Thoughts on Costco's Weight Loss Program
• 8、Beyond Weight Loss: The Bigger Picture of Virtual Healthcare
• 9、The Science Behind These Weight Loss Medications
• 10、Real People, Real Results: What Users Are Saying
• 11、How This Compares to Other Weight Loss Options
• 12、What Doctors Really Think About These Programs
• 13、Making the Most of Your Virtual Care Experience
• 14、The Business Side: Why Companies Are Betting Big on Telehealth
• 15、Your Action Plan: Next Steps to Consider
• 16、FAQs

Costco and Sesame Team Up for Affordable Weight Loss Solutions

Big News for Costco Members Seeking Weight Loss Help

Guess what? Your Costco membership just got even more valuable! Starting April 2, 2024, Costco is partnering with Sesame to offer exclusive weight loss programs featuring popular medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Saxenda. For just $179 every three months, you'll get:

• Virtual consultations with doctors
• Personalized weight loss plans
• Ongoing medical support
• Help with insurance approvals

But here's the catch: While the program itself is affordable, the actual medications aren't included. We'll talk more about those costs later.

Why This Partnership Makes Sense

Remember when Costco started offering $29 doctor visits last fall? That was their first test run with Sesame. Turns out, members loved the convenience and savings! David Goldhill, Sesame's CEO, says the weight loss program came directly from customer demand.

Think about it - where else can you buy a 5-pound jar of peanut butter AND get weight loss help in the same place? Only at Costco!

Meet Sesame - Your New Healthcare Best Friend

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What Exactly is Sesame?

Imagine having a doctor in your pocket - that's basically what Sesame offers. Dr. Kubanych Takyrbashev, a health expert not affiliated with Sesame, describes it as "an affordable online bridge between patients and healthcare providers."

Here's how it works in simple terms:

1. You sign up through Costco
2. Browse services on their easy-to-use app
3. Schedule video calls with doctors
4. Get prescriptions sent to your pharmacy

The Nuts and Bolts of Sesame's Weight Loss Program

Let's break down what you're really getting with that $179 subscription:

Now, here's something important: medications can cost $950-$1,600 without insurance. That's why we recommend checking your coverage before signing up.

Getting Started: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: The Costco Membership

No membership card? No problem! You can sign up:

• Online at Costco.com
• At your local warehouse (bonus: you can grab samples while you're there!)

Nancy Mitchell, a registered nurse, assures us that "even if you're not tech-savvy, the sign-up process is super simple."

Photos provided by pixabay

What Exactly is Sesame?

Once you're a Costco member:

1. Visit Sesame's special Costco portal
2. Create your account (takes about 5 minutes)
3. Start browsing available services

Pro tip: Bookmark the site on your phone so you can access it easily whenever you need it!

The Big Question: Will This Actually Save You Money?

Comparing Traditional vs. Sesame Healthcare Costs

Here's a reality check - traditional doctor visits for weight loss can cost:

• $150-$300 per office visit
• Plus lab work costs
• Plus medication costs

With Sesame, you're paying $179 for three months of continuous care. That's like paying for one traditional doctor visit but getting three months of support!

But What About Those Expensive Medications?

This is where things get tricky. Let's look at the actual drug costs at Costco:

See the difference? Wegovy and Saxenda are more likely to be covered by insurance because they're approved for weight loss. Ozempic? Not so much unless you have diabetes.

Who Benefits Most From This Program?

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What Exactly is Sesame?

Can you imagine trying to lose weight but struggling to get to doctor appointments? That's where Sesame shines! Dr. Takyrbashev points out that "seniors and people with mobility challenges will especially appreciate being able to do everything from home."

Picture this: You can have your doctor's appointment during lunch break, pick up your prescription after work, and never have to take time off for medical visits. Pretty convenient, right?

A Good Option for the Budget-Conscious

Let's be real - healthcare costs are crazy these days. Sesame's model cuts out the middleman to save you money. While medication costs are still high, at least the medical care itself is affordable.

Here's a quick comparison to show potential savings:

• Traditional route: $300 visit + $1,000 meds = $1,300
• Sesame route: $179 program + $1,000 meds = $1,179

You save $121 right off the bat - that's enough for a nice dinner to celebrate your weight loss journey!

Important Considerations Before You Sign Up

Insurance Matters More Than You Think

Here's a question you might be wondering: "Will my insurance cover these weight loss medications?" The answer depends on several factors:

• Your specific insurance plan
• Whether you have diabetes (for Ozempic)
• Your BMI and other health factors

The good news? Sesame will help you navigate the insurance maze. They'll even help with prior authorizations - something that normally drives people crazy!

Realistic Expectations About Weight Loss

Sesame estimates most people will lose about 5% of their body weight in three months. That might not sound like much, but doctors say it's actually significant for health improvements.

Think of it this way: If you weigh 200 pounds, that's 10 pounds gone in three months - without crazy diets or spending hours at the gym!

Final Thoughts on Costco's Weight Loss Program

Why This Could Be a Game-Changer

We're living in the golden age of convenience, and healthcare is finally catching up. Being able to manage your weight loss from your couch? That's pretty amazing when you think about it.

The combination of Costco's buying power and Sesame's streamlined service creates a unique opportunity for affordable care. Just remember - the medications are still pricey if your insurance doesn't cover them.

Our Recommendation

If you're a Costco member already, this is definitely worth checking out. Even if you don't end up using the weight loss program, knowing you have access to affordable healthcare through your membership is pretty cool.

And if you're not a member? Well, between the $1.50 hot dogs and now healthcare discounts, maybe it's time to reconsider!

Beyond Weight Loss: The Bigger Picture of Virtual Healthcare

Virtual Care Isn't Just About Shedding Pounds

You know what's really exciting? This Costco-Sesame partnership might just be the beginning of a healthcare revolution. While everyone's talking about weight loss medications, we're seeing virtual care expand into areas nobody expected.

Take mental health, for example. Did you know Sesame already offers therapy sessions starting at $39? That's cheaper than most copays! Imagine getting anxiety treatment while waiting in the Costco tire center - now that's multitasking at its finest.

The Future of Pharmacy Services

Here's something most people haven't considered yet: What if Costco starts offering virtual pharmacist consultations next? Picture this - you're buying vitamins and suddenly remember you have a question about drug interactions. Instead of waiting in line, you could video chat with a pharmacist right there in the aisle!

We're already seeing Walmart and Amazon make big moves in healthcare. Costco's playing catch-up, but with their loyal membership base, they might just leapfrog the competition.

The Science Behind These Weight Loss Medications

How These Drugs Actually Work in Your Body

Ever wonder why everyone's suddenly obsessed with Ozempic and Wegovy? These medications mimic a hormone called GLP-1 that your gut naturally produces. Here's the cool part - they don't just help with weight loss, they actually:

• Slow down how fast your stomach empties (hello, feeling full longer!)
• Reduce cravings by acting on your brain's reward centers
• Help regulate blood sugar levels

But here's the kicker - these effects disappear if you stop taking the medication. That's why the ongoing support from Sesame's program is so crucial.

Unexpected Benefits Beyond Weight Loss

Get this - researchers are discovering these medications might help with way more than just shedding pounds. Early studies suggest they could:

Who knew a diabetes medication could become the Swiss Army knife of modern medicine?

Real People, Real Results: What Users Are Saying

Success Stories From Early Adopters

Jessica, a 42-year-old teacher from Ohio, tried the program last month. "I was skeptical at first," she admits, "but having a doctor available via text message changed everything. When I had nausea from the medication at 10 PM, I didn't have to panic - just sent a message and got advice right away."

Then there's Mark, a truck driver who struggled with finding time for doctor visits. "The video consultations fit perfectly into my schedule," he says. "I'd pull over at rest stops for my appointments. Six months later, I'm down 28 pounds and my sleep apnea improved dramatically."

The Not-So-Good Experiences Too

Let's be real - not everyone has a perfect experience. Some users report:

• Insurance denials for medications
• Difficulty getting timely responses during peak hours
• Side effects that made continuing treatment challenging

But here's the silver lining - even those who couldn't continue with the medications say they appreciated the affordable access to medical advice.

How This Compares to Other Weight Loss Options

Traditional Diet Programs vs. Medical Weight Loss

Ever tried Weight Watchers or Noom? Those programs focus on behavior change, which is great, but they don't address the biological factors making weight loss difficult for many people. That's where medical interventions come in.

Think of it like this: Behavior programs teach you how to fish, while medications like Wegovy give you a fishing pole that makes catching fish easier. The most successful patients combine both approaches.

Surgical Options: When Medications Aren't Enough

For some people with severe obesity, medications might not be enough. But guess what? Virtual care can help with that too! Many bariatric surgery programs now offer:

• Pre-surgical consultations via telehealth
• Post-op follow-ups from home
• Nutrition counseling through apps

The beauty of modern healthcare? You've got options at every level of need.

What Doctors Really Think About These Programs

The Pros According to Medical Professionals

Dr. Allison Schmidt, an obesity specialist not affiliated with Sesame, sees huge potential: "These partnerships make specialized care accessible to people in rural areas or those who can't take time off work. I've had patients drive three hours for appointments - now they can get quality care from home."

Other benefits doctors highlight:

• Easier monitoring between visits
• Better medication adherence with virtual check-ins
• Reduced stigma - some patients feel more comfortable at home

The Concerns Some Experts Have

But is all this convenience potentially dangerous? Some doctors worry about:

• Missing important physical exam findings
• Overprescribing without proper monitoring
• Patients self-diagnosing through apps

Here's the thing though - responsible telehealth programs include safeguards like required periodic in-person visits for certain medications.

Making the Most of Your Virtual Care Experience

Pro Tips for Successful Telehealth Visits

Want to get the most out of your Sesame membership? Try these tricks:

1. Test your technology before appointments
2. Have your weight, blood pressure, and other metrics ready
3. Write down questions in advance
4. Choose a quiet, well-lit space for calls

Remember, the doctor can't smell your breath through the screen, but they can tell if you're distracted by your surroundings!

When Virtual Care Isn't the Right Choice

Here's a question worth asking: "Are there times when I should still see a doctor in person?" Absolutely! You'll want an office visit for:

• Annual physical exams
• Certain vaccinations
• When you have symptoms that need hands-on evaluation

The smart approach? Use virtual care for follow-ups and routine management, saving in-person visits for when you really need them.

The Business Side: Why Companies Are Betting Big on Telehealth

How Retailers Are Changing Healthcare

It's not just Costco - Walmart, CVS, and even Amazon are building healthcare empires. Why? Because they've realized health services drive customer loyalty. Get someone coming in for medications, and they'll also buy groceries, electronics, you name it!

The numbers tell the story:

Costco's move? Just the latest in a retail healthcare arms race!

What This Means for Traditional Healthcare Providers

Hospitals and private practices are watching these developments closely. Some are partnering with retailers, while others are scrambling to offer their own telehealth options.

The bottom line? Competition is heating up, and that's great news for consumers like you and me. More options mean better prices and more convenient care.

Your Action Plan: Next Steps to Consider

Questions to Ask Before Signing Up

Before you jump into the program, here are some smart questions to consider:

• Does my insurance cover these specific medications?
• What's the cancellation policy if it doesn't work out?
• How often will I need bloodwork or other monitoring?

Remember, an informed patient is an empowered patient!

Alternative Options If This Isn't Right for You

Not ready for medication-assisted weight loss? No problem! You might consider:

• Costco's nutritionist services (yes, they offer those too!)
• Local support groups that meet at warehouses
• Fitness trackers and apps that sync with telehealth

The key is finding what works for your lifestyle and budget. And hey, if all else fails, those Costco sample stations do offer some great healthy options sometimes!

E.g. ：Costco Weight Loss Program: Latest Status, Pricing & More

FAQs

Q: How much does the Costco-Sesame weight loss program cost?

A: The Costco-Sesame weight loss program costs $179 for a three-month subscription. This includes virtual consultations with doctors, personalized weight loss plans, ongoing medical support, and help with insurance approvals. However, it's important to note that this fee doesn't cover the cost of medications or lab work. Popular weight loss drugs like Ozempic can cost $1,000+ per month without insurance. While the program itself is affordable, you'll need to budget separately for any prescriptions your doctor recommends through the service.

Q: What weight loss medications are available through Sesame?

A: Through the Sesame platform, Costco members can access FDA-approved weight loss medications including Wegovy and Saxenda, as well as Ozempic (though Ozempic is technically only approved for diabetes treatment). These GLP-1 medications have shown significant results for weight loss, but their availability depends on your consultation with a Sesame healthcare provider. Remember that Wegovy and Saxenda are more likely to be covered by insurance for weight loss, while Ozempic coverage typically requires a diabetes diagnosis.

Q: Do I need to be a Costco member to use this weight loss program?

A: Yes, you absolutely need an active Costco membership to access these discounted Sesame services. The good news is that Costco memberships start at just $60 per year, and the savings on healthcare could quickly make up for that cost. If you're not already a member, you can sign up either online at Costco.com or at your local warehouse. Once you're a member, you can create your Sesame account entirely online - no need to visit a Costco store to access the healthcare services.

Q: How does Sesame compare to traditional weight loss doctor visits?

A: Sesame offers several advantages over traditional in-person weight loss programs. First, it's significantly cheaper - traditional doctor visits can cost $150-$300 each, while Sesame provides three months of continuous care for $179. Second, it's more convenient - you can have appointments via video call and message your doctor anytime. However, the medication costs remain the same whether you use Sesame or traditional care. The program is especially beneficial for busy people, seniors, or those with mobility challenges who find it hard to make regular office visits.

Q: Will my insurance cover the medications prescribed through Sesame?

A: Insurance coverage varies significantly depending on your plan and the medication. Wegovy and Saxenda, being FDA-approved for weight loss, have better chances of coverage than Ozempic (unless you have diabetes). Sesame will help you navigate insurance approvals and prior authorizations, which can be a huge help. However, if your insurance doesn't cover weight loss medications, you'll be responsible for the full cost, which can range from $950 to $1,600 per month. We recommend checking with your insurance provider before starting the program.