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Walmart launches same-day pharmacy delivery

When that head cold hits like a truck, the last thing you want to do is leave the house. Walmart can now help.
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Navigate the healthcare industry

Healthcare Brew covers pharmaceutical developments, health startups, the latest tech, and how it impacts hospitals and providers to keep administrators and providers informed.

Need an inflatable unicorn pool float and prescription cough medicine delivered to your home? Walmart’s now got you covered.

The retail giant announced it is rolling out Pharmacy Delivery, a service that delivers new prescriptions and medication refills with groceries and whatever else you impulsively added to your cart.

The new service is up and running in six states—Arkansas, Missouri, New York, Nevada, South Carolina, and Wisconsin—with plans to reach 49 states by the end of January 2025.

This puts the chain on par with drugstore giants like CVS and Walgreens, where each offers same-day, one-day, and two-day drug delivery options.

But while CVS Health and Walgreens stocks are tanking this quarter, Monday’s announcement sent Walmart’s stock soaring toward towering heights, reaching nearly $83 a share on Wednesday.

As for what’s off limits, consumers won’t be able to get any controlled substances, Medicare Part B items, or refrigerated meds.

Oh, and Walmart+ members get this new perk for free. Non-members cough up (pun intended) a $9.95 delivery charge for the service.

The chain’s press release noted that prescriptions will be verified by licensed pharmacists, and transport will be HIPAA compliant. Medications will be in tamper-evident packaging, customers can track their orders through Walmart’s app or website, and they will receive photo confirmation of the delivery.

So, if you absolutely need blood pressure medication and powdered Jell-O by tonight, Walmart’s on top of it.

Navigate the healthcare industry

Healthcare Brew covers pharmaceutical developments, health startups, the latest tech, and how it impacts hospitals and providers to keep administrators and providers informed.