CVS HEALTH CORPORATION - CVS STOCK NEWS

On October 21, 2020, CVS Health announced new initiatives aimed at preventing opioid misuse amid the pandemic. The programs include a digital curriculum, "Dose of Knowledge," developed in collaboration with Discovery Education, to educate students on drug misuse. CVS Health has committed nearly $3 million in grants to local organizations for addiction treatment and prevention. Additionally, CVS is enhancing access to naloxone, offering free delivery of the overdose-reversal drug in 30 states. CVS will also participate in the National Prescription Take Back Day to promote safe medication disposal.

CVS Health (NYSE: CVS) announced plans to hire 15,000 new employees, focusing on pharmacy technicians, to address the anticipated increase in COVID-19 and flu cases this fall and winter. Over 10,000 positions will be filled at CVS Pharmacy locations, with many being temporary roles that could become permanent. This recruitment drive is part of a larger effort where CVS aims to hire 50,000 employees in response to the pandemic. Job seekers can apply online for various positions, including pharmacists and customer service representatives.

CVS Health (NYSE: CVS) announced its plan to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to long-term care facilities nationwide once the vaccine is available. With experience from administering over nine million flu shots and five million COVID tests, CVS aims to help protect vulnerable elderly populations. The company operates 3,700 drive-thru testing sites and plans to administer approximately four million COVID-19 tests monthly. CEO Larry Merlo emphasized CVS's role in combating COVID-19, showcasing its capabilities to address community health needs effectively.

CVS Health Corporation has announced a quarterly dividend of $0.50 per share, payable on November 2, 2020, to shareholders on record by October 22, 2020. This decision by the board of directors underscores the company's commitment to returning value to its investors. CVS is focused on evolving into a consumer-centric health company, leveraging nearly 10,000 local touchpoints and innovative programs designed to enhance healthcare accessibility and affordability.

Aetna, a CVS Health company, unveiled its 2021 Medicare offerings, focusing on enhanced integration with CVS and new Medicare Advantage plans. Key highlights include the addition of HMO and Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans in new states, as well as Aetna Medicare Eagle plans tailored for Veterans. Aetna also introduced the lowest premium standalone prescription drug plan in the U.S. with an average premium of $7.15. With nearly 9.2 million Medicare members, Aetna aims to provide affordable and convenient care to a broader beneficiary population.

On September 22, 2020, U.S. News & World Report, alongside the Aetna Foundation, unveiled the third annual Healthiest Communities rankings, with new tools tracking COVID-19 data and its effects on community health. The initiative, part of CVS Health’s $100 million commitment to community wellness, emphasizes the disparities worsened by the pandemic. Top-ranked communities include Los Alamos County, New Mexico, and Douglas County, Colorado. The rankings evaluate 3,000 communities based on 84 health metrics across multiple categories.

CVS Health (NYSE: CVS) announced plans to establish over 2,000 new COVID-19 drive-thru test sites, aiming to exceed 4,000 locations by mid-October. This expansion solidifies CVS's position as the operator of the largest number of independent COVID-19 test sites in the U.S., facilitating testing in 33 states and Washington, DC. The tests are self-swabbed at no cost to patients meeting CDC criteria and results are typically available within 2-3 days. CVS emphasizes its commitment to community health and access to essential services during the pandemic.

CVS Health (NYSE: CVS) will invest $13.7 million to renovate 230 low-income housing units at Rosewind apartments in Columbus, Ohio. This initiative is part of the company's broader $600 million commitment over five years to tackle racial inequality and improve social determinants of health. The investment aims to enhance affordable housing access, providing necessary rehab and support programs in the community. Collaborating with local organizations, CVS will also fund health screenings, educational programs, and workforce initiatives to build sustainable community support.

CVS Health announced a special access program for Apple Fitness+, targeting clients, customers, and employees. The plan includes a one-year subscription offer for Aetna commercial and CVS Caremark members, with more details forthcoming. CVS Pharmacy ExtraCare members and current employees will receive a free two-month trial upon the launch of Fitness+. This initiative is part of the ongoing relationship between Aetna and Apple, aimed at enhancing health and wellness for users via a personalized workout experience. Fitness+ integrates metrics from the Apple Watch, making workouts more engaging.