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 Walmart will pilot a program that will connect patients with local
doctors in an effort to cut down on its workers relying on word of
mouth or social media to find a doctor. The pilot programs will be
held in parts of Arkansas, Florida and Texas.
The company is the largest U.S. private-sector employer with a 1.4
million workforce.
In North Carolina and South Carolina, the company will test a
concierge service to address issues with billing, fix appointments,
understand a diagnosis and find a provider.
In Colorado, Wisconsin and Minnesota, Walmart will expand a program
that allows patients to video chat with a doctor from home for $4
per chat.
The retailer will also offer workers access to fitness clubs for $9
per bi-weekly pay period and add a predictable co-pay of $35 for
every visit to a primary care physician under its most popular
medical plan. These services will be available nationwide.
In addition to healthcare services for employees, the company is
also beefing up its presence in the fast-growing health and wellness
market in the country.
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Recently, Walmart said it is expanding an education program it began
last year by offering healthcare degrees, aimed at filling critical
roles at its more than 5,000 retail pharmacies.
Last year, the retailer signed a deal with Anthem Inc <ANTM.N>, one
of the country's largest insurers, to attract more Medicare
enrollees to buy over-the-counter medicines and supplies at its
stores.
This month, it opened a facility in Georgia to offer low-priced
health services that include dental, x-rays, and mental health
counseling.
Walmart also runs one of the largest pharmacy chains in the country
and has been aggressive in offering low priced generic drugs and
prescriptions.
(Reporting by Nandita Bose in Washington)
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