US: Anthem announces alliance with Walmart

Health insurance plan provider Anthem is collaborating with Walmart to provide consumers with easier access to over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and other health-related services, announced CNBC.

Starting in January, patients who are enrolled in Anthem’s Medicare Advantage plans can use their insurance to cover some over-the-counter medications as well as other goods like first aid supplies and pain relievers at Walmart. The partnership will allow patients to decrease their medical expenses and should help draw more shoppers to Walmart.

Currently, Anthem’s Medicare Advantage members who pay extra for plans with an OTC benefit can buy those items through a catalog over the phone or online, or they can shop in stores, though not both. In partnering with Walmart, members will be able to buy their items online or in stores.

“We believe that programs like this can make a tremendous difference for health-care consumers who often live on a fixed income or are managing chronic medical conditions,” said Felicia Norwood, executive vice president and president of Anthem’s government business division.

Full Content: CNBC, CNBC