Special Report: The Virtual Rx Boom

From erectile dysfunction to weight loss, how telehealth got hooked on drug-first thinking.

October 11, 2025 Check out STAT+

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Thumỹ Phan for STAT STAT+ | From erectile dysfunction to weight loss, how telehealth got hooked on drug-first thinking Telehealth began as a way to help patients access doctors, but has rapidly transformed into a way to help companies sell drugs. A STAT special report by Katie Palmer. By Katie Palmer Photo illustration: Alex Hogan/STAT; Photo: Getty Images Jay Shetty and his health advice are everywhere. It's by design The author, entrepreneur, and host of the health podcast "On Purpose" helps people overcome issues from their past. His own past is a different story. By Alexa Lee Thumỹ Phan for STAT STAT+ | Fueling telehealth's rise, more doctors are licensed in all 50 states than ever before Behind the rise of nationwide telehealth practices and online clinics is a surge in physicians racking up licenses in all 50 states and D.C. By Katie Palmer STAT+ | Parents are flocking to natural and 'clean medicine' brands. Medical experts are worried Trump's Tylenol warning comes as parents explore nature-based alternatives. Experts ask if wellness brands exploit autism concerns to sell products. By Sarah Todd Opinion: My mother had Alzheimer's. I watched her slip away in the fragile care system My mother's treatment at a continuing care community was a casualty in the math of profit over people. By Emily Portugal Opinion: When patients refuse cancer treatment On the "First Opinion Podcast," an oncologist and a breast cancer survivor discuss the complicated relationship between doctor and cancer patient. By Torie Bosch STAT+ | They advised federal health agencies on the ethics and impact of scientific research. They're no longer wanted The Trump administration has been shedding scientific expertise and patient perspectives in the name of slimming down the federal government. By Megan Molteni and Anil Oza Opinion: Parents of children with rare diseases ask: How long until our CRISPR miracle? There is a critical gap in communication about the potential of gene therapies, and it's hurting parents of kids with rare diseases. By Celena Lozano

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