How Amazon is attacking brick-and-mortar pharmacies

Amazon is expanding its healthcare activities with a direct attack on traditional pharmacies: starting in December, the e-commerce giant will open pharmacy vending machines in doctors’ offices in Los Angeles.

Right into the doctor’s office

The self-service kiosks, basically medicine vending machines, allow patients to pick up their medication immediately after a consultation. The range includes hundreds of prescription medicines, including antibiotics, inhalers, blood pressure medication, and treatments for flu and allergies. After the appointment, a QR code appears on the Amazon app, which the patient can use to pick up and pay for their order.