How does Sesame work?

If you or one of your kiddos is in need of a doctor's visit, head to the Sesame website and enter your location to find the providers and services available in your area. For an immediate concern that's likely to require diagnostic testing—like a strep or COVID test—a prescription, or a referral to a specialist, you can choose from in-person or virtual appointments with internists that are same-day, next-day, or within three days. For more specialized needs, you can search all available services, from skin care and women's health to pediatric and dental care. Imaging is also available in select areas, including x-rays, MRIs, and mammograms.

Once you've found a provider who fits your needs, booking is quick and easy—generally under two minutes. Simply click through the doctor's calendar to see available dates and times—plus a price listed on each time slot, so you know exactly what you're signing up for. Select a slot, enter your payment information, and you're all set.

Can it be cheaper to go to a doctor without insurance?

Even when you have health insurance, high deductibles and gaps in coverage can make healthcare expensive and inaccessible. Sesame can help you find great care for less than a deductible, saving you more money than insurance itself. And, without the middlemen that make healthcare so unbelievably expensive, visits booked on Sesame can actually be more than 50% more affordable than typical healthcare.

Why use Sesame for my families' healthcare needs?

Of course, the cost-saving benefits are huge, but the ease of the Sesame platform is another major draw. Imagine being able to shop for and compare the prices and quality of doctors online, just like you do sofas or televisions. With Sesame's online healthcare platform you can quickly and easily compare doctors by price, availability, services offered, and customer ratings. You can even browse by language spoken and see the options on a map to find the most convenient office location near you.

What services are available through Sesame?

Sesame lets you book more than 40 services and treats more than 140 conditions. Availability varies across the Houston area and from one state to the next, but below are the care types and specialties included on the platform:

Care Types

• Dental
• Imaging
• Mental health
• Prescription refill
• Skin care
• Urgent care
• Women's health
• $5 Meds
• Explore all services

Specialties

• Counseling & therapy
• Dental
• Dermatology
• Family medicine
• General doctor
• Imaging & radiology
• Pediatrics
• Primary care
• Explore all specialties

Note that while Sesame customers in all 50 states can schedule virtual visits with doctors, only patients in the following regions can book in-person care and medical services like MRIs, labs, and more: New York City; Kansas City, MO; Kansas City, KC; Florida; Houston, TX. By the end of 2021, Sesame plans to offer anything a patient could need nationwide.

Can I save money on prescription medications with Sesame?

Not only can providers on Sesame write prescriptions, but hundreds of generic medications for anxiety, depression, diabetes, hypertension, and more are available for $5 with free delivery. Doctors who are able to offer this service have a "$5 meds" tag in their profile.

Can I use Sesame if I have health insurance?

While you don't need insurance to use Sesame, you can use a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) to pay for your care. If you have an HSA or FSA, you may have a special debit card that can be used to pay upfront, or you may need to pay the bill yourself and then submit a receipt.

If your insurance includes out-of network coverage you can also submit your receipt to your insurance for reimbursement or to count it towards your deductible. Eligibility is determined by your insurance company and will vary depending on your plan. You can also always use your insurance to pay for medications picked up at your local pharmacy.

How do I get started on Sesame?

Because there's no membership or membership fee required, all you need to do is head to Sesame’s website and start booking. If you have any questions, 24/7 patient support is available in both English and Spanish to help patients book with peace of mind.