Walmart Channels Walgreens With COVID, Flu and Strep Throat Testing in Pharmacies

Walmart has launched a new program called Testing and Treatment at its pharmacies in 12 states, according to the retailer Tuesday (Aug. 29).

The program allows Walmart pharmacists to test customers for strep throat, the flu and COVID-19 and then provide appropriate treatments. The program is available in Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, South Dakota, Tennessee and Washington stores.

“Patients who wish to take advantage of the program have options,” said Kevin Host, senior vice president, Walmart Health & Wellness, Pharmacy, in the blog post announcing the program. “They can simply walk-in to a participating pharmacy and engage with a pharmacist, or they can use Walmart’s mobile app to make an appointment and head in when it’s time.”

Currently, the service is cash only, but Walmart plans to bill third-party insurance plans in the future. Health savings accounts are accepted, and third-party coverage will be accepted soon, Host said. The cost starts at around $133, depending on the specific service provided.

The program is the latest push by the retailer to expand its healthcare offerings. In 2022, Walmart began establishing Walmart Health centers adjacent to its Walmart Supercenters, a move that followed its acquisition of MeMD in 2021.

“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,” Host said. “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 decision to offer COVID, flu, and strep testing is a strategic move to compete with Walgreens, Amazon, CVS and other retailers that are expanding healthcare offerings. Amazon has steadily grown its presence in the healthcare industry with initiatives like Amazon Pharmacy and Amazon Care. Walgreens began offering flu and COVID testing last December. Walgreens offers a two-in-one flu and COVID-19 test for $19.99, plus a $44.99 assessment fee.

CVS has also had ongoing efforts to strengthen its healthcare services division, acquiring Oak Street Health and Signify Health to diversify its offerings and provide comprehensive healthcare solutions.