Optum Now vs TeleMed2U
A detailed head-to-head comparison of Optum Now and TeleMed2U — pricing, peptides, consultation models, and patient reviews.
At a Glance
RatingNo reviews
Starting PriceN/A
Peptides2
ConsultationHybrid
Lab TestingNo
Shipping3-5 business days
Pros
- $45/month unlimited virtual visits
- Available in all 50 states
- Video consultations (not async-only)
- Deep integration with UnitedHealthcare for seamless insurance coordination
- Lab ordering available through Quest Diagnostics partnership
- Behavioral health network access for patients who need psychological support alongside weight management
Cons
- No compounded GLP-1 options
- Not a specialized obesity medicine practice
- Tied to the UnitedHealth Group ecosystem, which has faced criticism over prior authorization denial rates and conflicts of interest across insurance, PBM, and care delivery
- Relatively new to weight management (added 2024)
- No in-person option for patients who prefer or need hands-on clinical evaluation
- Vertical integration cuts both ways
RatingNo reviews
Starting PriceN/A
Peptides2
ConsultationHybrid
Lab TestingNo
Shipping3-5 business days
Pros
- Insurance accepted for consultations
- Established since 2013
- Primary care breadth means GLP-1 treatment is embedded in comprehensive care, not isolated from the rest of your health
- Video consultations with physicians
- Branded GLP-1 prescriptions through primary care are a more straightforward regulatory pathway than compounding
- California regulation and longer track record provide some additional baseline accountability
Cons
- Not a GLP-1-specialist platform
- Branded GLP-1 medications can be expensive without strong insurance coverage; patients without obesity coverage may face high out-of-pocket medication costs
- Requires scheduled video appointments
- Insurance acceptance means billing complexity; not all plans cover telehealth visits or GLP-1 medications equally
- Less marketing visibility than dedicated GLP-1 platforms, which can make it harder to find patient reviews and comparative information
Pros & Cons
Peptide Pricing Comparison
| Peptide | Optum Now | TeleMed2U |
|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide | Price unavailable | Price unavailable |
| Tirzepatide | Price unavailable | Price unavailable |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Optum Now or TeleMed2U better?
Optum Now offers 2 peptides and hybrid consultations. TeleMed2U offers 2 peptides and hybrid consultations. The best choice depends on which peptides you need, your budget, and preferred consultation model.
Which is cheaper, Optum Now or TeleMed2U?
See the pricing table above for a detailed comparison.