Hims vs. Roman 2023: What to Know About These Men’s Health Services

Men have traditionally been reluctant to seek out medical care, often waiting until their symptoms become unbearable before scheduling an appointment. However, thanks to the rise of telemedicine, men’s health services have become more accessible than ever before.

Two companies leading the way in this field are Hims and Roman, both of which offer a variety of treatments and services designed to help men live healthier, happier lives. From hair loss and erectile dysfunction to skincare and mental health, Hims and Roman provide virtual consultations, prescriptions, and resources to men across the United States.

But how do the two companies compare and which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Hims vs. Roman in 2023 and break down the similarities, differences, and key factors to consider when choosing a men’s health service provider.

What are Hims and Roman?

Hims

Hims is a telemedicine company that specializes in men’s health, offering products and services for a range of issues including hair loss, erectile dysfunction, skincare, and mental health.

Founded in 2017, Hims offers online consultations with licensed healthcare providers as well as prescription medications and over-the-counter products that can be delivered to customers’ homes. The company aims to make it easier and more affordable for men to access healthcare services for sensitive issues.

Roman

Roman is another telemedicine company that focuses on men’s health, providing treatments for conditions like erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, hair loss, cold sores, and genital herpes.

Like Hims, Roman offers online consultations with licensed healthcare providers, prescription medications, and home delivery. The company also has a pharmacy network that allows customers to fill prescriptions at their local pharmacies if they prefer.

Roman was founded in 2017 and has since expanded its offerings to include women’s health products under the brand Rory.

Medical conditions treated

Erectile dysfunction (ED)

Both Hims and Roman offer treatment for erectile dysfunction, a common condition that affects many men. Hims offers prescriptions for sildenafil (generic Viagra) and tadalafil (generic Cialis), while Roman offers sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil (generic Levitra). All three medications work by increasing blood flow to the penis, allowing for an erection. Hims and Roman require online consultations with a healthcare provider before prescribing medication for ED.

Hair loss

Hims and Roman both offer treatments for male pattern baldness, including prescription and over-the-counter options. Hims offers a variety of prescription products such as finasteride and minoxidil, as well as non-prescription hair vitamins and shampoos. Roman offers prescription finasteride and non-prescription biotin supplements. Both companies require online consultations with a healthcare provider for prescription products.

Acne

Hims offers prescription topical tretinoin cream for acne, while Roman offers acne products that can be purchased over-the-counter such as salicylic acid pads and benzoyl peroxide cream. Both companies require online consultations with a healthcare provider for prescription products.

Premature ejaculation

Roman offers treatment products for premature ejaculation, including prescription sertraline and an over-the-counter delay spray. Both products require an online consultation with a healthcare provider before purchase.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Roman offers testing and treatment for STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes. They offer at-home testing kits and online consultations with a healthcare provider for treatment if needed.

General men’s health concerns

Both Hims and Roman offer online consultations with healthcare providers for a variety of general men’s health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and low libido. These consultations can lead to prescription medications or referrals to specialists if necessary.

Prescription drugs offered

Hims

Hims offers prescription drugs for a range of men’s health concerns. They provide treatments for erectile dysfunction, hair loss, premature ejaculation, cold sores, acne, and more. Some of the prescription drugs that Hims offers include:

• Sildenafil for erectile dysfunction
• Tadalafil for erectile dysfunction
• Finasteride for hair loss
• Dapoxetine for premature ejaculation
• Acyclovir for cold sores
• Tretinoin for acne

Roman

Roman also offers prescription drugs for various men’s health issues. They provide treatments for erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, hair loss, and more. Some of the prescription drugs that Roman offers include:

• Sildenafil for erectile dysfunction
• Tadalafil for erectile dysfunction
• Finasteride for hair loss
• Dapoxetine for premature ejaculation
• Bupropion for premature ejaculation
• Minoxidil for hair loss

It’s important to note that both Hims and Roman require a valid prescription from a healthcare provider before they can provide any prescription drugs. Additionally, certain medications may not be available in all states due to varying state regulations. It’s best to check with each company to make sure they offer the medication you need in your state.

Pricing and insurance

Hims Pricing

Hims medication prices vary depending on the product and quantity ordered. For example, their erectile dysfunction medications start at $20 per month, while their hair loss treatments start at $44 per month. They also offer bundle packages for certain products, which can provide additional savings.

However, it is important to note that Hims does not accept insurance for their products. Customers must pay out of pocket for their medication and treatments.

Roman Pricing

Roman’s pricing structure is similar to Hims, with prices varying depending on the product and quantity ordered. Their erectile dysfunction medications start at $17 per dose, while their hair loss treatments start at $17 per month. They also offer bundle packages for certain products.

Like Hims, Roman does not accept insurance for their products and treatments. Customers must pay out of pocket for their medication and services.

Comparison of Costs

Overall, Hims and Roman offer similar pricing structures for their products. However, Hims may be slightly more expensive for certain products, such as hair loss treatments. On the other hand, Roman may be more affordable for customers looking for erectile dysfunction medication.

Despite their similar pricing, it is important to compare costs before making a purchase. Customers should also consider the convenience and quality of the products and services offered by both companies.

Insurance Coverage

While both Hims and Roman do not accept insurance, customers may still be able to use their insurance to cover the cost of certain medications and treatments. It is recommended that customers check with their insurance provider to see what medications and treatments are covered and what their out-of-pocket costs will be.

Customers may also be able to use health savings accounts (HSAs) or flexible spending accounts (FSAs) to cover the cost of these services. It is important to check with your plan provider to determine eligibility and coverage.

Ordering process

Step-by-step guide

The ordering process for both Hims and Roman is relatively simple. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Go to the website of the service provider you choose.
2. Create an account by providing your personal and medical information.
3. Select the product you want to buy and complete the online medical consultation.
4. If a licensed healthcare provider determines that the product is appropriate for you, you will be able to complete your purchase.
5. Your order will be shipped directly to your door in discreet packaging.

Online consultation

The online consultation process is a crucial step in ordering from Hims and Roman. You will be required to answer a series of questions about your medical history and current health status. Based on your answers, a licensed healthcare provider will review your information and determine if you are eligible to use the product you are interested in ordering.

The online consultation is a convenient way to get a prescription or recommendation for a product without having to visit a doctor’s office in person. However, it is essential to answer questions truthfully and accurately to ensure that you receive safe and effective treatment.

Customer reviews

Positive reviews

Many customers have praised both Hims and Roman for their ease of use and convenience. One reviewer on Hims’ website wrote, “Been using Hims for a few months now and I have to say I really appreciate the convenience and affordability they offer.” Another customer on Roman’s website raved, “I was hesitant at first but the process was so easy and the products are high quality. Will be using Roman again!”

Other customers have praised the effectiveness of Hims and Roman’s products. One reviewer on Hims’ website praised the company’s hair loss treatment, stating, “After just a few months of treatment, I’m noticing significant growth and thicker hair. Thank you Hims!” Another customer on Roman’s website raved about their ED medication, saying, “The medication worked exactly as advertised. It’s a game changer for me and has improved my relationship with my partner.”

Negative reviews

Some customers have complained about certain aspects of both Hims and Roman’s services. One reviewer on Hims’ website criticized the company’s packaging, stating, “I appreciate the discreet packaging, but it’s excessive. It’s not great for the environment and there’s a lot of waste.” Another customer on Roman’s website complained about the cost, stating, “I found the prices to be quite high, especially when compared to other online pharmacies.”

Other negative reviews have criticized the effectiveness of Hims and Roman’s products. One reviewer on Hims’ website complained about the company’s acne treatment, stating, “I’ve been using the product for several months now and I haven’t noticed any improvement in my skin.” Another customer on Roman’s website complained about their hair loss treatment, stating, “I didn’t notice any regrowth while using the product and found it to be a waste of money.”

Shipping options

Standard shipping

Both Hims and Roman offer standard shipping on their products. This option is typically the most affordable and takes around 3-5 business days for delivery. It’s a good choice if you’re not in a hurry to receive your order and want to save on shipping costs.

Express shipping

If you need your order to arrive quickly, both Hims and Roman offer express shipping options. This typically takes 1-2 business days for delivery and is an excellent choice if you need your order right away. Keep in mind that express shipping will cost more than standard shipping.

International shipping

If you’re located outside of the United States, both Hims and Roman offer international shipping options. However, there may be some restrictions on certain products, so it’s important to check before placing your order. International shipping can take anywhere from 5-15 business days for delivery depending on your location.

Subscription shipping

If you’re a regular user of either Hims or Roman, you may want to consider signing up for subscription shipping. This option automatically delivers your products on a regular schedule, so you never run out. It’s a convenient option that can save you time and money on shipping costs.

Shipping fees

Both Hims and Roman offer free standard shipping on orders over a certain amount, but there may be additional fees for express shipping or international shipping. Be sure to check the shipping fees before placing your order to avoid any surprises.

Privacy and security

Data privacy

Hims and Roman both emphasize the importance of protecting their customers’ data privacy. They state that they comply with all relevant online privacy laws and regulations and use industry-standard measures to safeguard customer information.

However, it’s worth noting that sharing medical information online always carries some inherent privacy risks. Both companies note that they may share customer information with healthcare providers and pharmacies to provide treatment. They also collect and store customer data such as medical history, prescriptions, and payment information.

Security measures

Hims and Roman have implemented various security measures to protect their customers’ sensitive medical and financial information. They use encryption to secure customer data during transmission and storage. They also use firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular security audits to prevent unauthorized access.

In addition, Hims and Roman require strong passwords and use multi-factor authentication to verify customer identities. They also train their employees on data security best practices and limit access to customer data to authorized personnel only.

Comparing privacy and security

	Hims	Roman
Data privacy	Hims notes that they only share customer information with healthcare providers and pharmacies. They also state that they comply with relevant privacy laws.	Roman also notes that they comply with privacy laws and regulations. They state that they do not share customer information with third parties without explicit consent.
Security measures	Hims uses encryption, firewalls, and multi-factor authentication to protect customer data. They also conduct regular security audits.	Roman uses similar security measures, including encryption and strong passwords. They also limit access to customer data and train employees on best data security practices.

• Both Hims and Roman have taken thorough measures to protect their customers’ data privacy and security. However, as with any online service that collects sensitive information, there is always some inherent risk.
• It’s up to each individual to weigh the benefits of the convenience of these services against the potential risks to privacy and security.

Customer support

24/7 availability

Both Hims and Roman offer round-the-clock customer support, ensuring that their clients can have their concerns addressed at any time of the day or night. This is especially important for men’s health services, where clients may have urgent questions or require immediate assistance with their treatment plans.

Multichannel support

Both platforms offer multiple channels for customer support, including email, phone, and live chat. This allows clients to choose the method that works best for them and provides greater convenience and flexibility in addressing their concerns.

Trained specialists

Hims and Roman employ trained specialists who are knowledgeable in men’s health and can provide knowledgeable and professional support to their clients. These specialists are equipped to handle a wide range of inquiries, from questions about specific treatments to help with navigating the platform.

Transparent communication

Both companies pride themselves on transparency in their communication with clients, ensuring that they provide complete and accurate information on their products and services. This includes being upfront about costs and fees, as well as providing clear instructions on how to use their platform and accessing their support resources.

Client satisfaction

Both Hims and Roman have a high level of client satisfaction, indicating that their customer support is effective and responsive. This is backed up by positive reviews and testimonials from clients who have been pleased with their overall experience using these men’s health services.

Key takeaways:

Both Hims and Roman offer 24/7 customer support for their men’s health services Multichannel support is available through email, phone, and live chat Trained specialists provide knowledgeable support Transparent communication is prioritized to ensure that clients have accurate and complete information Positive client satisfaction indicates that customer support is effective and responsive

Telemedicine and virtual consultations

One of the most significant ways in which Hims and Roman have revolutionized men’s healthcare is through their telemedicine and virtual consultation platforms.

Virtual consultations

With virtual consultations, men can consult with medical professionals from the comfort and privacy of their own homes. Both Hims and Roman offer virtual consultation services, making it easy for men to access medical advice without having to leave their homes. This is especially beneficial for those who live in rural areas or those who have limited access to healthcare facilities.

Telemedicine

Telemedicine involves the use of technology to provide healthcare services and advice remotely. Hims and Roman both use this technology to provide a range of services, including online prescriptions and test result analysis. Men can access these services easily from their smartphones or computers, making healthcare much more accessible and convenient.

• Overall, telemedicine and virtual consultations have helped to increase access to healthcare for men, making it easier for them to seek treatment and advice without having to visit a clinic or doctor’s office.
• These services are also beneficial for those who may feel embarrassed or uncomfortable discussing certain health conditions in person.

Advantages and disadvantages of using Hims and Roman

Advantages of using Hims and Roman

Both Hims and Roman offer a convenient way for men to take care of their health without leaving their homes. These services offer online consultations with licensed doctors, which can save time and reduce the stigma that some men may feel about seeking healthcare.

Another advantage of Hims and Roman is that they offer a wide range of products and services for men’s health. These include treatments for hair loss, erectile dysfunction, and skin care, among others. The companies also offer ongoing support and follow-up care to their customers.

Finally, Hims and Roman both offer affordable pricing for their services, which can be a major advantage for men who are paying out of pocket for healthcare. They also offer discreet packaging and shipping, which can be important for men who prefer to keep their medical treatments private.

Disadvantages of using Hims and Roman

One potential disadvantage of using Hims and Roman is that they may not be covered by insurance. This means that some men may have to pay the full cost of their treatments out of pocket, which can be expensive.

Another disadvantage of these services is that they may not be appropriate for all men. For example, men with serious medical conditions may require more extensive testing and treatment than can be provided through an online consultation.

Finally, some critics have raised concerns about the quality of care provided by Hims and Roman. While all of the doctors who work for these companies are licensed and qualified, some have argued that virtual consultations may not be as effective as in-person visits for diagnosing and treating certain conditions.