CVS HEALTH CORPORATION - CVS STOCK NEWS

CVS Health® announced the appointment of Dr. Amar Desai as President of the newly formed Health Care Delivery organization, effective October 17. Dr. Desai, formerly CEO of Optum Pacific West, will direct CVS Health's clinical delivery strategy, focusing on retail health, chronic disease management, and behavioral health. This strategic move aims to enhance the company's health services while leveraging its extensive portfolio. CEO Karen S. Lynch emphasized Dr. Desai's clinical expertise as vital for delivering high-quality care to patients.

Aetna, a CVS Health company, has unveiled its 2023 Medicare plans focusing on affordability and enhanced benefits for members. Key highlights include Medicare Advantage plans with $0 premiums available to 84% of beneficiaries, new Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans, and expanded options for veterans. Aetna will also implement significant cost reductions in prescription drug coverage, including $0 deductibles and copays on many medications. The updates aim to relieve financial burdens for older adults while increasing access to essential health services.

CVS Health (NYSE: CVS) is taking significant steps to ensure safety and continuity of care as Hurricane Ian approaches Florida. The company is proactively reaching out to patients regarding medication refills and supplying stores with emergency items. Key measures include offering emergency refills for plan members and expanding support for Medicare and Commercial members. CVS Pharmacy will comply with local evacuation orders and has strategies in place for rerouting calls from closed pharmacies. The company emphasizes the importance of preparedness for its customers and communities during the storm.

CVS Health has reported significant progress in its goal to reduce suicide attempts among Aetna members by 20% by 2025, achieving a 15.7% reduction as of March 2022 compared to 2019 baselines. For adults aged 18+, there was a 34.1% decrease in attempts, while the rate among adolescents (ages 13-17) unfortunately rose by 32%. CVS attributes this progress to various initiatives, including its Adolescent Outreach Program and partnerships aimed at providing necessary mental health resources.

CVS Health has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.55 per share on its Common Stock. This dividend is scheduled for payment on November 1, 2022, with record holders identified as of October 21, 2022. This announcement underscores CVS Health's commitment to returning value to its shareholders while maintaining its role as a leading health solutions company.

CVS Health has installed time delay safe technology in all 213 CVS Pharmacy locations across Louisiana, Mississippi, and Arkansas to combat organized retail crime. This initiative, part of CVS's partnership with law enforcement, is expected to lower pharmacy robberies and improve safety for customers and staff. Historical data shows that pharmacies using this technology have seen a 50% reduction in robberies. The time delay function acts as a deterrent, making it harder for robbers to access controlled substances quickly.

CVS Health has appointed Jeffrey R. Balser, M.D., Ph.D., to its Board of Directors as of September 13, 2022. Dr. Balser, who has been the President and CEO of Vanderbilt University Medical Center since 2009, brings extensive experience in health care to the board. His appointment is expected to strengthen CVS Health’s strategy to enhance consumer health services. The leadership change comes at a pivotal time for the company as it aims to redefine health care delivery.

Aetna, a CVS Health company, is expanding its individual and family health insurance plans in Missouri to enhance care accessibility for over half a million uninsured residents. The hybrid-branded plans will provide affordable healthcare options through CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic locations. Aetna's comprehensive network includes virtual and walk-in care, pediatric services, mental health support, and preventive services. The new offerings target select counties, including Barry and Cass, with final approvals pending. This initiative aims to meet diverse healthcare needs and improve access for Missourians.

Aetna CVS Health is launching individual health insurance plans in Delaware, aimed at providing affordable care options through Aetna's network and CVS Pharmacy locations. These ACA exchange products feature access to primary care doctors, mental health providers, and specialists, with $0 virtual care and walk-in visits at MinuteClinic locations. The initiative addresses the gap in coverage for uninsured and underinsured individuals, emphasizing comprehensive services including pediatric care, emergency services, and mental health support. Final approval for the plans is pending state and federal certifications.