Telehealth Weight-Loss Prescriptions Raise Concerns

The case of Claire Munch highlights the risks of online healthcare for complex conditions like eating disorders.

Published on Jan. 31, 2026

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The story of Claire Munch, who was hospitalized after receiving weight-loss drugs through the telehealth provider Juniper despite a history of eating disorders, is a stark warning about the rapidly expanding world of online healthcare. As demand for convenient weight-loss solutions surges, fueled by drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, telehealth companies are stepping in to fill the gap, but may not be adequately equipped to handle the complex psychological and medical needs of all patients.

Why it matters

Telehealth's appeal is undeniable, offering accessibility, affordability, and discretion. However, this convenience often comes at the cost of thorough, personalized care. Many platforms rely heavily on online questionnaires and algorithms to determine eligibility for medication, potentially overlooking crucial red flags. This raises concerns about the prioritization of profit over patient well-being, especially when companies continue to market to individuals who have expressed concerns or experienced harm.

The details

Juniper, part of the larger EUC Management (also known as Eucalyptus), isn't alone in this model. Its sister company, Pilot, targets men with similar treatments, highlighting a broad market trend. The focus often centers on Ozempic, but the landscape of GLP-1 receptor agonists is rapidly evolving, with Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) gaining popularity and new drugs constantly in development. This expanding market, coupled with aggressive marketing tactics, creates a perfect storm for potential misuse and adverse outcomes.

  • In January 2026, Claire Munch was hospitalized after receiving weight-loss drugs through the telehealth provider Juniper.

The players

Claire Munch

A patient who was hospitalized after receiving weight-loss drugs through the telehealth provider Juniper despite a history of eating disorders.

Juniper

A telehealth provider that prescribed weight-loss drugs to Claire Munch despite her history of eating disorders.

EUC Management (Eucalyptus)

The parent company of Juniper, which also operates the telehealth platform Pilot that targets men with similar weight-loss treatments.

Dr. Michael Wright

The president of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), who emphasizes the importance of prioritizing patient safety and maintaining the same standards for telehealth providers as for traditional practices.

Dr. Terri-Lynne South

A specialist in obesity management who notes that many patients are seeking access to weight-loss drugs without fully understanding the potential risks and benefits.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

Several trends are likely to shape the future of telehealth weight loss, including increased regulation, the use of AI-powered risk assessment tools, greater integration between telehealth platforms and primary care physicians, advances in personalized medicine, and a focus on behavioral health.

The takeaway

The story of Claire Munch serves as a cautionary tale. While telehealth offers exciting possibilities for expanding access to healthcare, it's crucial to proceed with caution and prioritize patient safety above all else. The future of weight-loss treatment hinges on responsible innovation, robust regulation, and a commitment to holistic, patient-centered care.