Two Models, Different Math
Telehealth GLP-1 providers generally use one of two pricing models: monthly subscription (everything bundled) or pay-per-visit with separate medication costs. The difference over a year can be hundreds of dollars.
Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. Prices verified May 2026.
How Each Model Works
| Feature | Subscription | Pay-Per-Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly fee | Fixed ($146–$299) | Consult fee + medication separately |
| Includes | Consult, medication, shipping, supplies | Consult only; medication billed separately |
| Predictability | High — same cost each month | Lower — costs vary by visit and pharmacy |
| Flexibility | Cancel/pause monthly (usually) | No ongoing commitment |
| Dose escalation | Some increase price; flat-rate providers don't | Pharmacy cost may change with dose |
12-Month Cost Comparison
Let's model both approaches for a patient on compounded semaglutide, going from 0.25mg to 2.4mg over 12 months:
| Model | Months 1-3 | Months 4-6 | Months 7-12 | 12-Month Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flat subscription (Gala) | $179×3 | $179×3 | $179×6 | $2,148 |
| Intro-priced sub (Embody) | $149+$299×2 | $299×3 | $299×6 | $3,438 |
| 6-mo plan (Yucca) | $146×3 | $146×3 | $146×6 | $1,752 |
| Dose-dep. sub (typical) | $199×3 | $249×3 | $349×6 | $3,438 |
The Winner
Flat-rate subscriptions consistently cost less over 12 months than introductory-priced or dose-dependent models — because they don't increase as your dose goes up. The Yucca 6-month plan is cheapest overall; Gala's flat rate is the best month-to-month option.
When Pay-Per-Visit Makes Sense
- Short trial period: If you're testing GLP-1 treatment and want to stop after 1-2 months, pay-per-visit avoids subscription commitments.
- Existing provider relationship: If your primary care doctor prescribes GLP-1s and you just need the medication filled, a standalone pharmacy may be cheaper.
- Insurance covers the medication: If your insurance pays for the drug but not the telehealth visit, a pay-per-visit consult ($50-100) plus insured medication ($0-50) is the cheapest path.
Our Picks
Best Flat-Rate Subscription
Gala
$179/mo flat — no dose escalation, cancel anytime
Compounded medications are not FDA-approved.
Best Commitment Plan
Yucca Health
$146/mo on 6-month plan — lowest subscription cost
Compounded medications are not FDA-approved.
Best Trial Entry
Embody
$149 first month — test the waters before committing
Compounded medications are not FDA-approved.
Key Takeaways
- Flat-rate subscriptions ($146–$179/mo) cost the least over 12 months
- Introductory-priced plans look cheap but can cost $1,000+ more annually
- Pay-per-visit works best for short trials or patients with insurance-covered medication
- Dose-dependent pricing is the most expensive model — costs increase as treatment progresses
- Always calculate 12-month total cost, not just the first month