Walmart expands pharmacist role with testing program for common illnesses

Walmart pharmacists in select states can now test customers for three common illnesses. 

In its latest push into healthcare, the retail giant is launching  a new initiative, called Testing and Treatment,  that lets pharmacists test customers for strep throat, the flu and COVID-19 — with results available as quickly as 15 minutes — and then offer in-store treatment options.  

“A flu test may lead to a prescription for Tamiflu, or a sore throat could be calmed by tea and chicken noodle soup,” said Kevin Host, senior VP, Walmart Health & Wellness, Pharmacy. “Either way, it’s only aisles away.”

The program is available at Walmart pharmacies in 12 states (listed at end of article), seven days a week. Customers can walk-in to a participating pharmacy for testing or they can make an appointment via Walmart’s mobile app.  

Currently, the service is cash-only, with prices starting around $133. Walmart said it plans to accept third-party coverage in the future. 

“If we learned anything in 2020 and the years that followed, it’s that testing and detection of curable illnesses can help save lives and bolster community health,” said Host.  “And with flu season on the horizon and COVID-19 cases forever fluctuating, we believe Testing and Treatment could hardly come at a better time.”

Walmart’s Testing and Treatment program is currently available in the following states: Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, South Dakota, Tennessee and Washington.