Navigating healthcare in today’s world can be complex, but Sesame Online Doctor offers a streamlined approach to accessing quality medical care from the comfort of your home. This platform connects patients directly with a wide network of board-certified physicians, providing a transparent and user-friendly experience for virtual and in-person consultations.
Sesame’s platform is easily accessible through desktop and mobile web browsers. New users can quickly create an account, while existing users can log in to schedule appointments. The intuitive search function allows patients to find available doctors based on name, symptoms, services needed, and location. To refine searches further, users can filter by price, language, patient type, and appointment availability. Each physician’s profile provides comprehensive details about their expertise, experience, and qualifications, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare providers. Notably, same-day appointments are often available, and doctors’ profiles clearly display open time slots and service offerings by date.
While virtual consultations via video chat are a core offering, Sesame understands the need for flexibility. Face-to-face visits can be arranged when deemed necessary. For patients without reliable video access, audio-only appointments are also an option. The duration of each appointment is clearly stated during the booking process. During a consultation, the online doctor will thoroughly evaluate the patient’s symptoms and healthcare needs. They may recommend follow-up appointments, laboratory tests, imaging services, or prescriptions as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Sesame’s physicians are authorized to prescribe a range of medications, typically for acute conditions like infections and allergies, within the bounds of office or urgent care settings. However, it’s important to note that due to telehealth regulations, they cannot prescribe controlled substances such as narcotics.
Operating on a direct-to-patient model, Sesame distinguishes itself by not accepting insurance directly. This approach simplifies billing and ensures price transparency. Patients pay directly for services, eliminating the complexities of co-pays and co-insurance. However, patients can utilize their Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds for payments. Furthermore, some insurance providers may offer reimbursement for Sesame service receipts, offering potential cost savings.
Sesame prioritizes customer support, offering assistance via telephone, email, and chat. Patients benefit from personalized accounts where they can securely store their information and medical records, making future bookings more efficient. Account services also facilitate easy appointment management, including cancellations and rescheduling. For cancellations or rescheduling made at least 24 hours in advance, full refunds are provided, with certain exceptions for services like confirmed surgeries or prescription fulfillment requests.
Sesame is committed to quality care, ensuring all physicians are board-certified and undergo a rigorous vetting process. This includes verifying licenses, education history, and confirming a clear disciplinary record. The platform boasts a diverse network of specialists, covering areas such as dermatology, dentistry, mental health, diabetes management, and general primary care.
Sesame’s pricing structure is designed to be transparent and accessible. There are no membership or subscription fees to join the platform. Instead, each provider sets their fees individually based on the specific service and visit requirements. This direct-to-patient care model allows users, regardless of insurance status, to access quality healthcare at clearly stated prices, free from hidden or unexpected charges. Payments are conveniently processed at the time of booking via major credit cards (VISA, Mastercard, American Express) or HSA/FSA cards. While Sesame doesn’t handle insurance directly, patients are encouraged to check if their insurance policy offers reimbursement for Sesame services.