Are you having trouble getting an appointment with your primary care provider? Tired of making calls and sitting in waiting rooms for hours on end just to be told that your problems are minor? Primary care providers are essential because they monitor one’s health and suggest remedies based on their needs. Individuals who are fortunate enough will stay with the same one for as long as they possibly can. However, this is not a one-to-one situation. While all are entitled to one primary care provider, they are likely to have multiple patients. So, does it really make sense to spend a whole day just for a quick checkup or discussion?
According to one trio, the answer is an emphatic no. As men who struggled to get help when they needed it most, particularly specialized solutions for their daily requirements, they decided to develop a telemedicine platform where those needing a quick consult could do so with US-licensed doctors and nurse practitioners. Interested in seeing if you qualify for such services from the comfort of your home? The following is an in-depth examination of the one and only Ro.
What is Ro?
Ro is a healthcare company that reportedly powers Ro-man. This company, in particular, focuses on providing direct-to-consumer telehealth services in which every aspect of getting tested and assuring quick access to medication is handled on a single platform. To put it another way, people generally have to go out of their way to get the help they require, but with Ro, healthcare can now be accessed from home. In the broader scheme of things, qualified individuals will be able to consult licensed doctors, coaches, and nurses in the comfort of their pajamas.
In the founders’ letter, Zachariah Reitano, Saman Rahmanian, and Rob Schutz explained how Ro came to be as a result of their own highs and lows with the present healthcare system. As noted in their letter, “We’ve been brought back to life from the brink of death. We’ve brought new life into the world six times! We, and our loved ones, have defeated some of the most formidable diseases.” However, in most cases, such occurrences resulted in high medical bills, as well as feelings of confusion up until the finish line.
Imagine having to put your life on hold due to a lack of care! This was something that the three of them were no longer ready to accept. Through Ro, the trio claim to see the following:
“We see a world in which patients are in complete control of their care. A world in which physicians, nurses, and pharmacists are empowered, not replaced by technology. A world in which your health is an afterthought, not because it’s not important, but because everything is being taken care of and you’re too busy living your best life.”
As optimistic as the world they imagine appears Zachariah, Saman, and Rob vow to bring it to Earth. In a world where men are expected to be strong, we are only now gradually accepting that men must maintain their skin health mental health, and even combat hormone imbalance. In this regard, our editorial team is pleased by Ro’s vision for men’s health. To understand how Ro works, we must examine the process and the various possibilities offered as solutions.
How does Ro work?
Ro offers telemedicine services, as mentioned above. To enable doctors and nurse practitioners to perform medicine and provide patient care remotely, the Ro team has implemented telemedicine technology. All medical providers contracted through Ro are US-licensed to prescribe medication and other treatments. Indeed, all of these specialists have completed comprehensive background checks and verification procedures.
In addition to the preceding, a medical advisory board has been established. This board has 25 members who are leaders in the fields of psychology, relationship counseling, men’s health, sexual health, neurology, pulmonology, male infertility, addiction, urology, pathology, and family medicine. Ro clearly has a lot to offer in terms of services, but the emphasis on healthcare policy and regulation really rounds out the board. This is an uncommon sight, and Ro should be commended for it.
First, patients must complete an online visit outlining symptoms and any and all medical histories, regardless of the severity of the health consequences. The information will then be reviewed by a US-licensed healthcare practitioner, who will provide a personalized suggestion. From there, a tailored treatment plan will be developed, with solutions delivered in discreet packaging. Naturally, the solutions that are most likely delivered are those that can be found through Ro, which we will be introducing next.
When it comes to ongoing care, people will have to download the Ro App to communicate with the designated provider. Here, patients will have the option to ask any remaining treatment-related questions, address any adverse effects, and discuss updates to treatment plans.
What goods does Ro offer?
Ro’s online medicine cabinet is stocked with a wide range of treatments for numerous medical issues. While Ro specialists will handle all of the guesswork, the following overview will give a good idea of what supplements might arrive at one’s doorstep:
Erectile Dysfunction
Specialists may advise Viagra® or Cialis® for patients with erectile dysfunction. These two treatments have been clinically validated and often need a prescription from a medical professional with a license in the US. Most people probably already know that Viagra® is a medication that inhibits the PDE5 enzyme and promotes healthy blood flow to the penis for a more robust, longer-lasting erection. Individuals are typically encouraged to take it within 60 minutes of beginning sexual activity, though it may last up to six hours. The aforementioned enzyme is inhibited by Cialis® just like it is by Viagra®, but Cialis® remains in the body for up to three days.
Vaginal Dryness
In women going through the perimenopause, menopausal, and post-menopause stages, vaginal dryness may initially appear to be a minor issue. Still, it can potentially cause both physical and emotional distress. Estradiol® is a popular remedy suggested by physicians. Simply put, this prescription cream with plant-derived estrogen is reckoned to help relieve dryness.
Premature Ejaculation
The inability to delay orgasm for the pleasure of yourself or your respective partner is known as premature ejaculation. To solve this problem, there are two possible routes. The first involves using the practical, over-the-counter wipes known as Roman Swipes. These 4% benzocaine wipes should be applied to the most sensitive areas of the penis and allowed to dry for no more than five minutes.
Per a 2019 study, 88% of those who used benzocaine wipes were no longer believed to have premature ejaculation after two months. Unlike the first route, the second route is more individualized. Based on the data provided during the online visit, the designated healthcare provider will determine the ideal treatment.
Testosterone Focused Solutions
To assist the male body in producing testosterone naturally, testosterone (also known as male sex hormone) supplements and treatments are frequently suggested. The testosterone hormone is central for men since it controls their overall sex drive, muscle and bone mass, production of red blood cells and sperm, and the unique traits that make men unique. This category includes the Roman Testosterone Support, Testosterone Evaluation Test, and Low Testosterone Treatment.
The Ro Testosterone Evaluation Test is an at-home test that determines testosterone levels in days (including sample collection and lab processing). The kit should show up within the first two to five days. Upon arrival, individuals will be asked to provide two blood samples over two days. After applications have been received and evaluated, people will meet with a certified Ro provider to discuss their treatment options. Low Testosterone Treatment could be suggested for persons with low testosterone.
The Low Testosterone Treatment uses an off-label pharmaceutical drug instead of the usual needle-based administration method. While exogenous testosterone injections into the body are a common component of TRT, Ro’s off-label treatment is thought to increase natural testosterone production. It may reduce the likelihood of severe adverse effects (i.e., shrinking testicles, low sperm count, and decreased fertility). Finally, for everyday uses, individuals with normal levels might be recommended the Roman Testosterone Support dietary supplement.
Genital Herpes and Cold Sores
Genital herpes, caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2, is known to cause painful ulcers in both men’s and women’s genitals. Ro usually prescribes a generic Valtrex drug called Valacyclovir® to alleviate these concerns. Valacyclovir® is an antiviral medication used to treat oral herpes (i.e., cold sores) and genital herpes. It could also be used to combat the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
Hot Flashes
Over 75% of women are predicted to have hot flashes at some point in their lives which is not surprising given that it is a well-known menopause-related symptom. Paroxetine® and Venlafaxine® are suggested non-hormonal treatments for this condition. These medications, used to treat anxiety and depression, include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). They have been shown to reduce hot flashes when taken in small dosages.
Weight Loss
One cannot usually achieve weight management goals by merely using vitamins or medications. While they might improve outcomes, neither approach is typically sufficient. Due to this, people also have the option of enrolling in the Ro 12-month Body Program. This program aims to aid participants in losing an average of 15% of their body weight by combining GLP-1 treatment with one-on-one coaching. It appears that GLP-1 has been clinically demonstrated to promote satiety, lessen cravings, and aid in the body’s effective processing of sugars, all of which help with healthy weight loss over a 12-month period.
The personal coaching component is appealing since people will undergo a metabolic test to help Ro experts understand more about each person’s body and provide guidance on topics like diet, exercise, sleep hygiene, and lifestyle adjustments, among other things. One of two weight loss medications may also be suggested by Ro experts. The first, known as Ozempic®, has been clinically shown to treat type 2 diabetes symptoms and risks, and the second, known as Wegovy®, functions as a natural hormone to control blood sugar and appetite.
Fertility
The fertility category can be divided into two: the first would support those attempting to conceive, and the second would help those who would rather avoid becoming pregnant. Women are given access to modern fertility birth control in the second, more minor of the two subcategories. The fact that Modern Fertility goes beyond pregnancy prevention sets it apart from the abundance of birth control pills on the market today.
To provide a tailored recommendation, the Ro specialist will assess 17 choices. For instance, women who want to avoid getting pregnant could also need assistance with acne or regular menstrual periods. Thus, the specialist will consider a precise pill combination for a balanced hormonal system. For those who wish to conceive, one of three (or all three) tests will be recommended for the Ro specialist to see exactly what each person requires.
The tests include the Fertility Hormone Test (the same one offered by endocrinologists but at a fraction of the cost), the Ovulation Test (to track LH levels daily, which in turn helps to predict fertility level), and of course, the Pregnancy Test. The Semen Analysis & Sperm Storage service is not yet available as of this writing. Nevertheless, the Modern Fertility Prenatal Multivitamin may be a choice to provide the body with essential nutrients in preparation for conception.
Skin
Many people probably don’t understand the importance of maintaining healthy skin, but understanding the various imperfections is crucial for skin and overall health. In this regard, we have the Custom Rx Treatment. This prescription skincare has been tailored to specific skin types and goals. The treatment may include any combination of the barrier-supporting, skin-nourishing Roderm Enriching Cream, the deep-cleaning Roderm Hydrating Cleanser, and the Roderm Protecting SPF Lotion (with UVA- and UVB-protection).
The Roman Eczema Treatment, a prescription triamcinolone cream 0.1% solution, is the last item under skincare. This is considered a necessity for those diagnosed with eczema and who require a support system to manage flare-ups.
Sweating
One’s day can easily be ruined by excessive sweating, especially for individuals who are acutely aware of the condition and fear what other people may think. Fortunately, Drysol® will put this worry to rest. Drysol® is a prescription for excessive sweating containing 20% aluminum chloride hexahydrate. It obstructs the sweat glands, reducing the amount of sweat produced. Applying this treatment to dry skin before bed will have the most significant effects.
Eyelids & Lashes
Next, we have Upneeq®, a prescription eye drop believed to correct droopy eyelids and temporarily raise the upper eyelids. It is important to stress that this is merely a temporary fix because surgical lifts are the sole option for long-lasting results. Having said that, this solution is reasonably practical considering its ability to produce results for up to eight hours. On the other side, there’s Latisse®, the first and only FDA-approved medication to encourage eyelash growth. Within the first 16 weeks of use, consumers can specifically expect fuller, thicker, and darker lashes.
Hair Health
The Men’s Hair Loss Treatment deserves special notice because it is a personalized treatment designed to increase hair growth and delay hair loss. The Ro specialists may advise Finasteride® and Minoxidil® (prescription treatments for male pattern baldness and crown of the head, respectively), only Finasteride®, or only Minoxidil® depending on the various requirements that each patient meets. If users are not interested in direct application, they can take Oral Minoxidil®, but this might not be sufficient for everyone. In addition to these solutions, individuals may want to consider regular hair care solutions like the Revive Shampoo, Restore Conditioner, Hair Supplement, or Dandruff Solution.
Daily Health
Last but not least, we have a specific category of daily health nutrition developed for reducing levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as for enhancing men’s health, prenatal health, cognition, cellular function, testosterone levels, and preventing allergic reactions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q – Who should use Ro?
A – Ro is appropriate for individuals who need assistance to enhance their health from the convenience of their homes.
Q – Who might not be eligible for Ro?
A – Ro will not treat anybody who hasn’t seen a physician in the last three years. This is mainly because Ro is a complement to a patient’s primary care physician, not a substitute.
Q – Is the data given to Ro secure?
A – It is reasonable for people to be apprehensive about disclosing their health-related information through an internet platform in a world where data breaches have become all too common. Rest assured that the Ro team takes the security and privacy of everyone’s information seriously. It is claimed that this platform complies with all applicable privacy regulations and has many security protocols in place.
Q – When will a Ro medical specialist analyze the first history that was submitted?
A – Within the first 24 hours following the online consultation, a physician or nurse practitioner will finish their initial review of the submitted medical history. If individuals do not hear back within this timeframe, they are asked to send an email directly to [email protected].
Q – Will I have to video conference with the Ro medical specialist?
A – After reviewing the first submission and determining that the individual is a good candidate for telemedicine, the specialist will contact them by text, phone call, or video conference. Whether or not a video conference is required will depend on the ailment being treated and state ordinances. Notably, a small number of jurisdictions require video conferences between a clinician and a patient.
Q – Is a prescription necessary to get started on Ro?
A – No prescription or reference is required to determine a patient’s eligibility for telemedicine. The doctors and nurse practitioners on this platform can prescribe medications if necessary.
Q – Do I have to purchase my medications directly from Ro?
A – Though some of the medications provided by Ro are available elsewhere, Ro guarantees that costs have been reduced to promote affordability. How could anyone fail to recognize the simplicity of ordering from Ro directly? No one will need to leave their homes to get what their health requires. Additionally, many of the suggestions are original, proprietary solutions that can only be found at Ro.
Q – Why does Ro need a photo of an ID and a different picture of only the face?
A – These are required to verify identity before beginning telemedicine. A government-issued ID with first and last names, a date of birth, and an expiration date is required. The second image needs to be free of filters and facial obstructions.
Q – When will users be charged for medications?
A – Users will only be charged if a doctor or nurse practitioner has given the go-ahead for a custom treatment plan.
Q – Is Ro covered by insurance?
A – Ro offers goods, services, and medications that are not covered by insurance.
Q – Is it possible to pause or cancel an order?
A – Yes, individuals have the option to turn off automatic shipments or delay orders as needed. For further clarity, you can contact the Ro customer support team by calling 1-844-691-8145 or sending an email to [email protected].
Q – Do I need to be home to sign for Ro shipments?
A – No, signatures are not required upon delivery. This has been done to promote utmost clarity.
Q – When will I receive my order?
A – To ensure that everyone’s prescriptions are delivered on time, all orders are shipped 2nd Day Air.
Q – Are Ro products protected by a money-back guarantee?
A – No, there is no money-back guarantee on Ro products. This team will only consider a refund request if they filled the patient’s prescription incorrectly.
How much do Ro goods and services cost?
The overall price of Ro goods and services will vary depending on the number of dosages and the frequency of deliveries (or plan type). These are the specifics that must be discussed after a treatment plan has been developed.
Meanwhile, here’s a basic picture of what the prices would look like for some of the many treatments available at Ro:
- Generic Viagra® – Sildenafil (25mg, 50mg, 100mg): $4, $6, $10 respectively
- Branded Viagra® – Sildenafil (25mg, 50mg, 100mg): $90 each
- Generic Cialis® – Tadalafil (5mg, 10mg, 20mg): $11 and $44, respectively
- Daily Generic Cialis® – Tadalafil (2.5mg, 5mg): $8, respectively
- Branded Cialis® – Tadalafil (5mg, 10mg, 20mg): $20 and $80, respectively
- Finasteride® and Minoxidil® (quarterly plan): $35 per month
- Finasteride® – Generic Propecia (quarterly plan): $20 per month
- Oral Minoxidil® – Generic Loniten (quarterly plan): $30 per month
- Minoxidil® – Generic Rogaine (quarterly plan): $16 per month
- Roman Swipes (monthly plan): $27 per month
- Roman Swipes (yearly plan): $22 per month
- Sertraline® – Generic Zoloft (monthly plan): $24 per month
- Sildenafil® (20mg, 40mg, 60mg, 80mg, 100mg): $2, $4, $6, $8, $10 respectively
- Valacyclovir® (3 outbreaks versus six outbreaks): $42 per quarter or $60 per quarter
- Roman Daily Men’s Multivitamin (monthly plan): $35 per month
- Roman Daily Men’s Multivitamin (quarterly plan): $29 per month
- Testosterone Support Daily Supplement (monthly plan): $35 per month
- Testosterone Support Daily Supplement (quarterly plan): $29 per month
- Stress Relief Daily Supplement (monthly plan): $39 per month
- Stress Relief Daily Supplement (quarterly plan): $33 per month
- Prostate Daily Supplement (monthly plan): $35 per month
- Prostate Daily Supplement (quarterly plan): $29 per month
- Azelastine® – Generic Astelin (monthly plan): $29 per month
- Azelastine® – Generic Astelin (quarterly plan): $19 per month
- Fluticasone® – Generic Flonase (monthly plan): $29 per month
- Fluticasone ® – Generic Flonase (quarterly plan): $19 per month
- Levocetirizine® – Generic Xyzal (monthly plan): $29 per month
- Levocetirizine® – Generic Xyzal (quarterly plan): $19 per month
- Montelukast® – Generic Singulair (monthly plan): $29 per month
- Montelukast® – Generic Singulair (quarterly plan): $19 per month
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Cream (quarterly plan): $15 per month
- Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Ciclopirox 0.75% (quarterly plan): $15 per month
- Drysol® (quarterly plan): $13 per month
- Plenity® Weight Management Supplement (monthly plan): $98 per month
- Plenity® Weight Management Supplement (quarterly plan): $83 per month
- Latisse® (monthly plan – 3ml): $110 per month
- Latisse® (quarterly plan – 5ml): $53 per month
- Custom Rx Skincare (bi-monthly) $29 per month
- Enriching Cream (bi-monthly): $8 per month
- Hydrating Cleanser (bi-monthly): $6 per month
- Protecting SPF Lotion (bi-monthly): $6 per month
- Testosterone Testing (one-time): $69 each
- Low Testosterone Treatment® (monthly plan): $165 per month
- Upneeq® (monthly plan – 30 single-use vials): $199
- Upneeq® (quarterly plan – 90 single-use vials): $495
Final Verdict
Ultimately, Ro is a telemedicine platform that allows people to obtain healthcare from the convenience of their own homes. The most common issue about virtual healthcare is legitimacy, followed by privacy. After evaluating every aspect of this platform, legitimacy is the least of our concerns, and we can explain why. The Ro team specifies who they can and cannot serve. Second, they mentioned each member of the medical advisory board and their areas of specialization. This is crucial because it presents a picture of the types of services people can expect. As previously stated, their emphasis on health policy and regulation must be recognized because it relates to both legitimacy and privacy.
Following that, they’ve integrated security protocols to validate both sides involved. From the expert side, Ro guarantees that only US-licensed doctors and nurse practitioners are admitted. In contrast, from the patient side, everyone was required to present two pictures (one of which was a government-issued ID) to qualify for their services. These standards help protect against data breaches and privacy concerns. Last but not least, Ro is incredibly transparent.
In reviewing the different goods (i.e., supplements and prescribed medications) and services (i.e., plans and tests), our editorial team was generally satisfied because of how the information was laid out. They’ve described potential remedies, their work, and any possible adverse effects. Furthermore, a price list for the various doses and plans that patients may be treated for has been made accessible. Of course, these are offered for informational purposes only. Additionally, individuals have the choice to get in touch with their assigned Ro specialists directly through the Ro app via calling, video conferencing, or messaging.
Clearly, Ro is as thorough as it gets, so people may wonder if this platform and its experts can replace a primary care provider (PCP). The answer is, unfortunately, no. Despite all of its benefits, Ro does not replace visits to a primary care provider (PCP). The purpose of this platform is to provide additional assistance to traditional visits. Ro may be helpful in obtaining an appointment for a rapid assessment of a symptom or illness, but individuals should still consult their PCP at the end of the day. When it comes to well-being, the more support, the merrier, and Ro aspires to provide just that.
To learn more about Ro, visit the official website today!
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The links contained in this product review may result in a small commission if you opt to purchase the product recommended at no additional cost to you. This goes towards supporting our research and editorial team. Please know we only recommend high-quality products.
Disclaimer:
Please understand that any advice or guidelines revealed here are not even remotely substitutes for sound medical or financial advice from a licensed healthcare provider or certified financial advisor. Make sure to consult with a professional physician or financial consultant before making any purchasing decision if you use medications or have concerns following the review details shared above. Individual results may vary and are not guaranteed as the statements regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration or Health Canada. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA, or Health Canada approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease and do not provide any kind of get-rich money scheme. Reviewer is not responsible for pricing inaccuracies. Check product sales page for final prices.
