Walgreens takes preventive health care services to Maryland

Walgreens is further expanding the scope of preventative health care services provided by its pharmacists and now offering daily testing for cholesterol, blood glucose and body composition at more than 60 stores in Maryland.

Each test also includes a free blood pressure reading and personal consultation with a Walgreens pharmacist.

“Providing convenient, affordable access to health testing services is an important part of our commitment to disease prevention and chronic care management,” stated Jon Reitz, market pharmacy director, Walgreens. “As the most accessible health care providers, our pharmacists are spending more time with patients through consultations, immunizations, medication questions or concerns, health testing and other important services to help our customers get, stay and live well.”

Tests are available to those ages 18 and over at most stores during pharmacy hours daily with no appointment necessary.

Walgreens offers health testing daily at more than 4,100 stores in 41 states.

Walgreens pharmacists administer tests by fingerstick. Cost for testing is:

• Total Cholesterol – $35;


• Blood Glucose – $20;


• Body Composition – $15;


• Wellness Pack: Cholesterol, Blood Glucose and Body Composition – $65; and


• Blood pressure – free with every health test.

Test results are not for diagnostic or treatment purposes and are not conclusive as to the absence or presence of any health condition. Customers are encouraged to share test results with their primary care physician.

The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends that all adults have their cholesterol levels checked at least every five years. However, adults over age 45 or with other risk factors for heart disease or stroke should talk with their primary care physician about whether more frequent testing is necessary. Walgreens total cholesterol tests include a review of triglycerides, HDL and LDL.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one-third of U.S. adults have high cholesterol, which can significantly increase the risk of heart disease or stroke.

The American Diabetes Association recommends blood glucose testing every three years for people with normal levels or in good health with no risk factors. Those who are overweight and/or over age 45 should talk with their doctor about whether more frequent testing is recommended.

The American Heart Association recommends body composition tests to detect various health problems including high blood pressure and diabetes which can increase risk for heart disease and stroke.