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What to Know About Getting GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications Through Telehealth in 2026

If you’re considering medication for weight management, you’ve likely heard about GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro. These revolutionary treatments have transformed obesity care, but many people wonder: ‘Can I actually get these medications through telehealth, or do I need to see a doctor in person?’

The short answer is yes, you can legally obtain these medications through telehealth in most states. But there are important nuances to understand about state laws, provider qualifications, and what to expect from the telehealth experience.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about accessing GLP-1 weight loss medications through telehealth in 2026.

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Can You Really Get GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications Through Telehealth?

GLP-1 agonists like Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro/Zepbound (tirzepatide) can generally be prescribed via telehealth under federal law because they are non-controlled substances. Unlike medications for ADHD or anxiety, GLP-1s aren’t regulated under the DEA’s Controlled Substances Act.

This means that at the federal level, there’s no requirement for an in-person visit before prescribing these medications. A licensed healthcare provider can evaluate you through a video consultation and send a prescription electronically to your pharmacy if you meet medical criteria.

However, state laws can add additional requirements, which we’ll cover in more detail below.

How the Telehealth Prescription Process Works

When you use a telehealth service like Klarity Health for weight management, here’s what typically happens:

1. Medical questionnaire: You’ll complete a detailed health assessment that screens for medical history, current medications, allergies, and factors that might affect your eligibility.

2. Video consultation: You’ll meet with a licensed healthcare provider (physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant) via secure video. They’ll discuss your health history, weight goals, and whether medication is appropriate.

3. Prescription decision: If you’re a good candidate, the provider can electronically send a prescription to your local pharmacy.

4. Follow-up care: Expect regular check-ins to monitor your progress, adjust dosage if needed, and address any side effects.

Klarity Health ensures this process is comprehensive, convenient, and compliant with all applicable laws and medical standards.

State-by-State Differences: Where Can You Get GLP-1s via Telehealth?

While telehealth prescribing of GLP-1s is widely available, the requirements vary by state. Here’s what you need to know about some key states:

States with No In-Person Requirements

These states allow fully virtual care for weight loss medications:

• California: Telehealth is explicitly permitted with no in-person exam requirement
• New York: Allows telehealth prescribing with no mandatory in-person visits
• Washington: No in-person requirement; telehealth is fully embraced
• Illinois: Permits virtual evaluation for non-controlled medications
• Florida: While telehealth is allowed, patients must have follow-up visits at least every 3 months

States with Initial In-Person Visit Requirements

These states require at least one in-person evaluation:

• Texas: Generally expects an initial in-person exam before telehealth prescribing for weight loss
• Georgia: Requires an initial in-person exam before telehealth prescribing
• Virginia: Requires a comprehensive in-person exam including labs before prescribing weight loss medications
• New Jersey: Mandates an in-person comprehensive exam and lab work for weight loss treatment
• Arkansas: One of the strictest states, requiring an in-person first visit

Even in states with in-person requirements, many telehealth providers like Klarity Health can help coordinate this initial visit, after which ongoing care can typically be provided virtually.

Who Can Legally Prescribe GLP-1 Medications via Telehealth?

The types of healthcare providers who can prescribe these medications varies by state:

Medical Doctors (MDs) and Doctors of Osteopathy (DOs)

Physicians can prescribe GLP-1 medications in all states, provided they’re licensed in your state of residence.

Nurse Practitioners (NPs)

• Full Independent Practice: NPs can prescribe without physician oversight in states like California, New York, Washington, and about 30 others
• Collaborative Practice: States like Texas, Pennsylvania, and Georgia require NPs to have a formal agreement with a supervising physician
• Restricted Practice: A few states have stricter requirements for NP prescribing

Physician Assistants (PAs)

PAs typically require some level of physician supervision in most states, though the specifics vary.

At Klarity Health, we ensure all providers are appropriately licensed and qualified to prescribe according to your state’s regulations, so you can be confident in the legitimacy of your care.

Medical Criteria: Who Qualifies for GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications?

A common misconception is that anyone can get these medications for cosmetic weight loss. In reality, reputable telehealth providers like Klarity Health follow evidence-based guidelines:

Standard clinical criteria include:

• BMI ≥30 (obesity), or
• BMI ≥27 with weight-related health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol
• Previous attempts at lifestyle modification
• No contraindications (like pregnancy, personal/family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, etc.)

During your telehealth consultation, your provider will discuss whether you meet these criteria and if medication is appropriate for you.

Red Flags: How to Identify Sketchy Telehealth Services

Not all telehealth providers are created equal. Be wary of services that:

• Promise a guaranteed prescription without thorough evaluation
• Sell ‘compounded’ versions of semaglutide (FDA banned most compounding in 2025)
• Don’t require follow-up appointments or monitoring
• Lack transparency about provider credentials
• Skip discussing potential risks, side effects, or alternatives

Klarity Health prioritizes patient safety with comprehensive evaluations, ongoing monitoring, transparent pricing, and only FDA-approved medications dispensed through licensed pharmacies.

FAQ: Common Questions About Telehealth for Weight Loss

Is it legal to get Wegovy or Ozempic through telehealth?

Yes, federal law permits telehealth prescribing of non-controlled substances like GLP-1 medications. However, some states require an initial in-person evaluation.

Will my insurance cover GLP-1s prescribed through telehealth?

Many insurance plans cover these medications when prescribed for appropriate medical reasons, regardless of whether prescribed in-person or via telehealth. Klarity Health works with most major insurance plans and can help determine your coverage.

What if I move to a different state during treatment?

Your telehealth provider must be licensed in the state where you physically reside. If you move, inform your provider – they may need to transfer your care to a colleague licensed in your new state, or obtain licensure there.

How often will I need follow-up appointments?

Most telehealth providers schedule follow-ups every 1-3 months. Some states mandate specific follow-up schedules (e.g., Florida requires at least one visit every 3 months).

Are telehealth prescriptions for these medications safe?

Yes, when prescribed by licensed providers following proper protocols. Virtual evaluations can thoroughly assess your medical history, current health status, and appropriateness for treatment.

The Future of Telehealth for Weight Loss Treatment

Telehealth for weight management is here to stay, with several trends emerging:

• Greater acceptance: More states are aligning with flexible telehealth models due to positive outcomes and patient demand
• Potential regulatory changes: While telehealth rules have stabilized, watch for possible adjustments as the field evolves
• Insurance coverage improvements: Many insurers are expanding coverage for both telehealth services and weight loss medications

As obesity continues to be recognized as a chronic medical condition requiring ongoing management, telehealth provides a convenient and effective way to access care. Klarity Health remains committed to staying current with all regulations while providing high-quality, accessible care.

Ready to Explore Weight Loss Treatment Options?

If you’re considering GLP-1 medications for weight management, telehealth offers a convenient way to consult with healthcare providers from the comfort of your home. Klarity Health provides comprehensive evaluations, transparent pricing, and ongoing support to help you reach your health goals.

Our providers are licensed in multiple states and experienced in weight management, ensuring you receive care that’s both convenient and compliant with all applicable regulations. Whether you have commercial insurance or prefer self-pay options, we can help you navigate the process.

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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