Walmart launches digital health care platform; cutting prices on wellness items
Walmart is starting the new year with an initiative intended to make health care easier and more affordable.
The retail giant is launching Better Care Services, a one-stop digital destination designed to designed to help empower customers to take control of their health journeys with ease, transparency and confidence, the company said. The platform will give customers instant access to a curated network of third-party providers
Once a same-day consultation on the platform is complete, Walmart’s pickup and delivery options will help customers get their prescriptions and over-the-counter needs through a health journey that starts and ends at Walmart. Beginning Jan. 15, customers can access a limited-time $15 discount on select telehealth services with participating providers.
“We know that when heath care feels hard, many people don’t get the care they need,” said Kevin Host, senior VP, health and wellness, pharmacy at Walmart. “Better Care Services is about making wellness simple and affordable to fit into your life. We’re removing barriers so more people can get the care they deserve, right when they need it.”
WELLNESS
To help customers act on their health goals, Walmart said it is also rolling back prices on more than 1,000 wellness-focused items. The rollbacks span food, supplements, over-the-counter products and fitness essentials. The retailer noted that the move comes at a time when nearly 60% of its shoppers say saving money is a top priority.
Walmart announced the price rollbacks the day after Target said it is expanding its wellness products assortment and adding thousands of new items priced under $10. It also is launching enhanced in-store events and digital experiences designed to give customers “more personalized ways to discover products for their wellness regimen.”
Walmart’s wellness commitment extends into local communities. On Saturday, Jan. 24, Walmart will host its annual Wellness Event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at nearly 4,600 pharmacies nationwide, offering free health screenings, low-cost immunizations and wellness consultations. The retailer has been hosting such events for more than a decade.
“Whether it’s the care you access, the food you buy or the products you rely on, our goal is to make wellness easier,” said Ralph Clare, senior vice president, health and wellness merchandising. “Customers should not have to choose between convenience, affordability and care, and at Walmart, they don’t have to.”
