Amazon's new AI can answer health questions and manage prescriptions
What's the story
Amazon has announced the expansion of its healthcare AI assistant, Health AI, to its main website and app. The move comes after the assistant was only available on the One Medical app, a healthcare company that Amazon acquired for $3.9 billion in 2023. The new update will allow users without Prime or One Medical memberships to access this advanced health tool.
Features
Health AI can answer general health questions
The Health AI assistant is designed to answer general health questions, explain health records, manage prescription renewals, and book appointments. However, Amazon has clarified that Health AI can answer general health questions without having access to an individual's medical information, while personalized functionality requires a user's permission to access their medical data. The company also emphasized that all interactions with Health AI are conducted in a HIPAA-compliant environment protected by encryption and strict access controls.
Personalization
Health AI can provide personalized guidance
While Health AI can answer general health questions, it is also designed to be a personalized health assistant. This means it can provide more tailored guidance and actions, such as connecting users with healthcare professionals and treatments. For example, if multiple patients ask about medication interactions, Amazon says it might use these patterns to improve how Health AI responds while keeping patient names private.
Provider access
With user permission, health AI can access their health information
With user permission, Health AI can access their health information through the Health Information Exchange, a nationwide secure system for sharing patient medical data. The assistant can then interpret lab results, diagnoses, and medical records to provide accurate, personalized answers about symptoms and medication. If professional care is needed, Health AI can connect users to a One Medical provider.
Consultation
How to use Amazon's health AI
US-based Prime members using Health AI get up to five free direct-message care consultations with a One Medical provider for over 30 common conditions. Non-Prime members can connect with One Medical providers through Amazon's pay-per-visit option. Users can sign up for Health AI on the Amazon Health page and start a conversation by typing their health question to the assistant on Amazon.com or in the app.