Health insurance plan provider Anthem is collaborating with retail giant Walmart to provide consumers with easier access to over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and other health-related services.
The collaboration will cater to those enrolled in Anthem’s affiliated Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, enabling them to use OTC plan allowances to buy OTC medications, health supplies (like first aid supplies and support braces) and pain relievers at any of Walmart’s 4,700 US stores or on Walmart.com.
Launching in January 2019, the Anthem-Walmart program is set to advance both companies’ mutual goals of reducing healthcare costs. Felicia Norwood, executive vice president and president, government business division, Anthem, said the insurer is pleased to tie-up with Walmart, given its “unwavering commitment to saving people money and developing a seamless shopping experience.”
“Creating a better healthcare future requires us to think differently about how we can develop innovative and meaningful healthcare solutions for consumers,” Norwood added. “We believe that programs like this can make a tremendous difference for healthcare consumers who often live on a fixed income or are managing chronic medical conditions.”
More than 90% of Americans live within 10 miles of a Walmart store and even more people have access to the retail giant’s online shopping experience. Walmart.com’s free two-day shipping offer for orders of $35 or more will be available via the Anthem-Walmart program – something both firms say will help shoppers gain value for money, while giving them a more convenient shopping experience.
“Walmart is committed to making healthcare more affordable and accessible, and we are in constant pursuit of new ways to deliver on this commitment,” said Sean Slovenski, senior vice president, Health and Wellness, Walmart US. “We’re thrilled to be working with Anthem to provide its Medicare Advantage members with convenient access to our broad assortment of high-quality over-the counter products – all available at everyday low prices.”
