According to an report by the AP press Wal-Mart $4 generic prescription drug program has been very successful. 37.8 percent of all prescriptions Walmart fills are $4 prescriptions. In September 2006 Wal-Mart began selling select generic drugs for $4 per monthly prescriptions.
November 2007 Walmart will extend the program to all of its U.S. pharmacies. Which by Walmart’s metrics, would put them ahead of schedule. Target and other retailers in the industry have provided programs like Walmarts. It is estimated that Wal-Mart’s $4 program has removed $350 million in costs from the U.S. health care system, with that number projected to rise to $1 billion in a year.
I think this is a big step in the right direction for the US healthcare dilemma. Most prescriptions cost a minimum of $5 with a co-pay. This would definitely help the elderly and retired who are on fixed incomes. Most that have monthly prescriptions would achieve some form of relief, however small it will help.
Walmart also expects to open as many as 2,000 in-store health clinics within 5 to 7 years depending on demand for this service. Pilot clinics began in September 2005. Based on finding they have decided to expand the program. These clinics provide basic preventative and health services such as cholesterol screenings or treatment for sore throats.
A routine visit will cost $40 to $65. These prices are based on not having insurance which is another US healthcare problem. Wal-Mart feels clinics will not bring new customers into its stores. However they do recognize there is a demand for healthcare alternatives without having to pay ridiculous prices trying to go to an emergency room.
www.reuters.com
