Do I need an in-person exam for Ozempic?

In recent years, GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro have revolutionized obesity treatment. With the rise of telehealth services, many patients wonder: Can I legally get GLP-1 weight loss medications through telehealth in my state? The short answer is yes—these medications can be prescribed via telehealth in all U.S. states, though specific requirements vary. This comprehensive guide breaks down the latest regulations, state differences, and what you should know about accessing these treatments online in 2025.

Federal Rules: The Foundation of Telehealth Prescribing

GLP-1 agonists for weight loss have a significant advantage over older weight management medications—they are not controlled substances. This means they aren’t subject to the strict Ryan Haight Act restrictions that regulate telehealth prescribing of medications like phentermine or stimulants.

Under federal law, medications like Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) can be legally prescribed via telehealth without requiring an in-person visit first. This has remained consistent even as pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities have evolved.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has extended COVID-19 telehealth flexibilities for controlled substances through December 31, 2025, but this primarily affects medications like Adderall or buprenorphine—not GLP-1 medications, which have always been exempt from these restrictions.

Free consultations available with select providers only.

Get a free consultation

And find an affordable, caring specialist.

Find a provider

Free consultations available with select providers only.

State-by-State Regulations: What You Need to Know

While federal law allows telehealth prescribing of GLP-1 medications, states have their own regulations that may add requirements. Here’s what you should know about key states:

States With No In-Person Requirements

These states allow fully virtual care for GLP-1 prescriptions:

• California: Explicitly permits telehealth prescribing with no in-person requirements
• Connecticut: Has permanent telehealth laws with no in-person mandate
• Florida: Allows telehealth prescribing but requires follow-up every 3 months
• Illinois: Has robust telehealth laws with no in-person examination requirement
• New York: Telehealth exam is sufficient; no in-person visit needed
• Pennsylvania: No in-person mandate for telehealth prescribing
• Washington: Pioneer telehealth state with no in-person requirements

States Requiring Initial In-Person Visits

Some states require an initial in-person examination before GLP-1 medications can be prescribed via telehealth:

• Arkansas: Must perform first examination in-person
• Delaware: First exam must be in-person
• Georgia: In-person exam required prior to telehealth prescribing
• Mississippi: Must see patient once in-person
• New Jersey: Comprehensive in-person exam and labs required
• North Dakota: In-person initial exam expected
• South Carolina: Must examine patient in person first
• Texas: In-person exam generally expected prior to telehealth prescribing
• Utah: Initial in-person exam encouraged
• Virginia: Must perform physical exam and labs initially

Who Can Prescribe GLP-1 Medications via Telehealth?

Provider qualifications vary by state:

• MDs and DOs: Can prescribe in all states (must be licensed in the patient’s state)
• Nurse Practitioners (NPs): Authority varies by state:
• Independent practice: California, Connecticut, New York, North Dakota, Utah, Virginia, Washington
• Collaborative practice: Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Mississippi, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas

At Klarity Health, we ensure all our providers are properly licensed and authorized to prescribe in your state, whether they’re physicians or advanced practice providers.

Common Telehealth Requirements for GLP-1 Prescriptions

While specifics vary by state, most telehealth providers follow these standard protocols for GLP-1 prescribing:

Patient Evaluation

• Detailed medical history
• Current weight and height (BMI calculation)
• Review of previous weight loss attempts
• Screening for contraindications (thyroid conditions, pregnancy, etc.)
• Discussion of medication options and side effects

Clinical Criteria

• Generally for adults with BMI ≥30, or BMI ≥27 with weight-related conditions
• Evidence of previous attempts at weight loss through lifestyle changes
• No contraindications for GLP-1 medication

Ongoing Monitoring

• Regular follow-up appointments (typically monthly at first, then every 2-3 months)
• Weight and side effect monitoring
• Dose adjustments as needed
• Some states (like Florida) legally require follow-ups at least every 3 months

Patient Eligibility: Clearing Up Misconceptions

A common misconception is that ‘anyone can get Ozempic online for quick weight loss.’ This isn’t true with reputable telehealth providers. GLP-1 medications are powerful treatments for clinically significant obesity, not casual weight loss aids.

Legitimate telehealth providers like Klarity Health conduct thorough evaluations to determine if you’re an appropriate candidate. This typically includes:

• Verifying your BMI meets clinical thresholds (usually ≥30, or ≥27 with conditions like diabetes or hypertension)
• Reviewing your health history for contraindications
• Discussing previous weight management attempts
• Developing a comprehensive treatment plan that includes lifestyle modifications

If you’re only seeking modest weight loss or have a BMI below clinical thresholds, a responsible provider will recommend lifestyle interventions rather than medication.

Red Flags: What to Watch For in Telehealth Services

The popularity of GLP-1 medications has unfortunately led to some questionable telehealth practices. Be cautious of services that:

1. Guarantee a prescription without thorough evaluation
2. Offer ‘compounded’ semaglutide (the FDA banned most compounded versions in 2025)
3. Don’t schedule follow-ups or monitor your progress
4. Lack transparency about provider credentials or licensing
5. Skip discussions about risks, side effects, and lifestyle changes

Reputable telehealth providers like Klarity Health prioritize patient safety with comprehensive evaluations, regular monitoring, and clear communication about medication benefits and risks.

Advantages of Using Telehealth for Weight Management

When done properly, telehealth offers significant benefits for GLP-1 treatment:

• Increased access: Especially valuable for patients in rural areas or with mobility limitations
• Convenience: No need to take time off work for in-office visits
• Privacy: Some patients prefer discussing weight concerns from the comfort of home
• Consistent monitoring: Regular virtual check-ins can support treatment adherence
• Cost efficiency: Telehealth visits often cost less than in-person appointments

At Klarity Health, we combine these advantages with rigorous clinical standards. Our providers are available quickly, often within days rather than the weeks or months typical for specialist appointments. We offer transparent pricing and accept both insurance and self-pay options, making treatment more accessible for those who need it.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Telehealth GLP-1 Prescribing

Telehealth prescribing of GLP-1 medications is likely to remain widely available, though regulations continue to evolve. Key trends to watch:

• State alignment: More states are moving toward flexible telehealth models that maintain patient safety while improving access
• NP/PA authority: Several states are considering bills to expand nurse practitioner prescribing authority
• Insurance coverage: More insurers are beginning to cover both telehealth visits and GLP-1 medications
• New medications: As more weight management medications enter the market, telehealth will adapt to incorporate them

Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions

GLP-1 medications represent a significant advancement in obesity treatment, and telehealth has made these treatments more accessible than ever. While regulations vary by state, patients across the U.S. can legally access these medications through proper telehealth services that follow state-specific requirements.

If you’re considering GLP-1 medications for weight management, choose a reputable telehealth provider like Klarity Health that prioritizes thorough evaluation, ongoing monitoring, and adherence to all regulatory requirements. Our team of licensed providers can help determine if these medications are appropriate for your situation while guiding you through the entire treatment process.

Ready to explore whether GLP-1 medications might be right for you? Schedule a consultation with a Klarity Health provider today to discuss your options and learn more about our comprehensive approach to weight management.

Citations

1. ‘DEA and HHS Extend Telemedicine Flexibilities through 2025.’ DEA.gov, November 15, 2024.

2. ‘The Drug Enforcement Administration extends COVID-era telehealth flex

Source:

• https://www.axios.com/2024/11/18/covid-telehealth-prescribing-extended-adderall#:~:text=The%20Drug%20Enforcement%20Administration%20,year%20extension
• https://www.dea.gov/documents/2024/2024-11/2024-11-15/dea-and-hhs-extend-telemedicine-flexibilities-through-2025#:~:text=telemedicine%20flexibilities%20through%20December%2031%2C,HHS%20on%20November%2015%2C%202024
• https://www.mwe.com/insights/dea-signals-extension-of-telemedicine-flexibilities-for-controlled-substance-prescribing-for-2026/#:~:text=A%20new%20rule%20posted%20on,date%20of%20December%2031%2C%202025
• https://www.mwe.com/insights/dea-extends-telemedicine-flexibilities-for-controlled-substance-prescribing-through-december-31-2025/#:~:text=,a%20final%20set%20of%20regulations
• https://www.mwe.com/insights/dea-extends-telemedicine-flexibilities-for-controlled-substance-prescribing-through-december-31-2025/#:~:text=31%2C%202024.%20,In%20February%202023%2C%20the%20DEA
• https://www.mwe.com/insights/dea-extends-telemedicine-flexibilities-for-controlled-substance-prescribing-through-december-31-2025/#:~:text=to%20perform%20an%20in,rule%20regarding%20telemedicine%20prescribing%20of
• https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-murkowski-warner-blackburn-urge-white-house-and-dea-to-extend-telehealth-flexibilities-for-substance-use-disorder-and-mental-health-treatment/#:~:text=Whitehouse%2C%20Murkowski%2C%20Warner%2C%20Blackburn%20Urge,substance%20use%20disorder%20treatment%20Washington
• https://natlawreview.com/article/arkansas-it-again-telemedicine-regulation-arkansas-undergoes-additional-change#:~:text=Arkansas%20currently%20has%20one%20of,person%20examination
• https://www.nextech.com/blog/semaglutide-laws-by-state#:~:text=Who%20can%20prescribe%20semaglutide%3F%20,
• https://natlawreview.com/article/arkansas-it-again-telemedicine-regulation-arkansas-undergoes-additional-change#:~:text=Arkansas%20currently%20has%20one%20of,encounter%20to%20establish%20a%20valid