Big box retailer Walmart is launching a six-month pilot program that places pharmacists in a new “Health Ambassador” role at five rural stores to help customers navigate health and wellness resources.
Walmart’s Health Ambassador Associate will be able to aid patients in understanding their health goals and help connect them to relevant services and resources.
The Health Ambassador role will be piloted at locations serving rural and underserved communities across the U.S., including in Lexington, Tenn.; Caro, Mich.; Franklin, Va.; Fort Scott, Kan.; and Searcy, Ark.
The pilot will initially focus on three healthcare areas: diabetes, weight management and maternal health. Health Ambassadors can also aid customers in nutrition, movement, sleep and stress management through the program’s in-person conversations and tailored coaching.
Approximately 90% of the U.S. population lives within 10 miles of a Walmart store or club, and 4,000 Walmart stores are located in medically underserved areas, according to the company. The retail giant sees an opportunity to leverage that proximity, combined with the relationships Walmart pharmacists have built in the communities they serve, to connect customers with health and wellness resources where they already live and shop.
“Customers already turn to Walmart for affordable food and everyday essentials, convenient services and pharmacists they know and trust,” said Emily Aaronson, M.D., Walmart U.S. chief medical officer, in a statement. “By giving pharmacists dedicated time to listen, coach and connect customers with relevant support, this pilot will help us learn how a familiar, trusted setting can make health resources more accessible, practical and actionable for people living in rural communities.”
On Wednesday, the retail giant also announced it would be partnering with SCAN Health Plan on a co-branded Medicare Advantage plan in two states. Pending regulatory review and approvals, the companies say offerings could include pharmacy services, vision services, food and over-the-counter benefits.