FYI.

This story is over 5 years old.

News

New birth control app lets you skip the doctor's visit

The app can prescribe and deliver birth control, from pills to the patch, even send Plan B via Postmates - all without a visit to a doctor.

Getting a prescription for birth control used to require a doctor’s visit, but not anymore. A new app called NurX cuts out the office trip entirely.

The app can prescribe and deliver birth control, from pills to the patch, even send Plan B via Postmates, all without the patient leaving home.

Here’s how it works: A patient fills out a basic medical questionnaire and submits a request for birth control. A doctor licensed in the patient’s state then reviews the patient’s medical history and request. After exchanging a few messages, the doctor will complete the patient’s request and the birth control is delivered to the patient’s door.

NurX is championing one aspect of women’s health by providing birth control to to people who may not otherwise be able to access it, but is there such a thing as too accessible? VICE News’ Nellie Bowles went to Illinois to see the app in action and find out.

This segment originally aired April 5, 2017, on VICE News Tonight on HBO.