NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsAugust 13, 2026Hillsborough
U.S. News and World Report identifies safety standards for GLP-1 telehealth providers in 2026
Health experts are advising patients to verify clinical oversight when using telehealth platforms for GLP-1 medications, as the number of users has increased fourfold in two years. The guidance follows an evaluation of over 20 providers, highlighting the importance of medical history reviews, blood work, and direct clinician interaction.
Read the full story at ABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsWhy It Matters
Patients seeking medications through online platforms face varying levels of medical oversight, which can impact their safety and the quality of care received.
Key Facts
- Approximately 11% of Americans are currently using GLP-1 medications, a fourfold increase over the last two years.
- U.S. News and World Report evaluated 20 telehealth providers and identified 11 that met their standards for clinical support and safety.
- The evaluation excluded companies selling only compounded medications because those products are not FDA-reviewed for safety or quality.
- Experts warn against platforms that issue prescriptions based solely on online questionnaires without clinician interaction or baseline blood work.
- GLP-1 medications are increasingly being used for conditions beyond weight loss, including heart disease, kidney disease, arthritis, and addiction.
- A survey of 1,200 GLP-1 users found that about two-thirds lost more than 10% of their body weight.
- Patients are advised to ensure their telehealth provider requires a full medical history review and blood work (liver and kidney function) before prescribing.
- Experts recommend that patients prioritize platforms offering real-time video consultations with clinicians.
Who's Mentioned
personGretel Schueller“Managing editor of Health at U.S. News and World Report”other11“Number of providers that met U.S. News standards”other1,200“Number of GLP-1 users surveyed”organizationEli Lilly“Involved in litigation with Novo Nordisk”organizationU.S. News and World Report“Evaluated telehealth providers and surveyed users”organizationNovo Nordisk“Involved in litigation against Eli Lilly”other20“Number of telehealth providers evaluated”