Walmart Expands Free HIV Screenings to 18 Pharmacies in Colorado and Virginia

Rhea-AI Summary

Walmart has expanded its HIV Point-of-Care Screenings to 18 pharmacies in Colorado and Virginia, adding to the pilot program initiated last year in Virginia. This initiative, offered through Walmart's Specialty Pharmacies of the Community (SPOCs), aims to enhance access to healthcare services by providing free HIV tests at 20 locations until September 27. The screenings, conducted by HIV-trained pharmacists, include care coordination, medication management, and additional preventive healthcare discussions. This expansion aligns with Walmart's goal to support undiagnosed individuals and reduce the stigma associated with HIV.

Positive

• Expansion to 18 additional pharmacies enhances healthcare accessibility.
• Free screenings potentially increase early HIV detection and support.
• Involvement of HIV-trained pharmacists ensures expert care and guidance.

Negative

• Continued pilot program status may indicate uncertainty in long-term viability.
• to two states, restricting nationwide impact.

The HIV Point-of-Care Screenings are a new service within Walmart’s Specialty Pharmacies of the Community that offer care coordination, recommendations and support provided by HIV-trained pharmacists

BENTONVILLE, Ark.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Today, Walmart announced the expansion of its HIV Point-of-Care Screenings to 18 Specialty Pharmacies of the Community (SPOCs) – located within Walmart Pharmacies – in Colorado and Virginia, just ahead of National HIV Testing Day on June 27. These screenings are part of Walmart’s continued effort to make healthcare more accessible, affordable and convenient, following the HIV screening pilot at two Walmart pharmacies in Virginia last year. Screenings at all 20 locations are free to patients as part of a continued pilot expansion that runs through Sept. 27.

This testing is all provided within Walmart’s SPOCs, which help patients with aspects of care, including industry-leading clinical programs, HIV-trained pharmacists performing at the top of their license, custom-care coordination and healthy lifestyle recommendations. Continuing our commitment to holistic care, Walmart’s specialty pharmacists can help you manage your medications, find emotional support, and navigate insurance options. They make treatment easier, more convenient and discreet for HIV patients to manage their healthcare needs, focused on each individual patient.

“We remain on a dedicated journey to broaden access to HIV care while also doing our part to reduce the stigma associated with HIV,” said Kevin Host, Senior Vice President of Pharmacy at Walmart. “Our newest HIV Point-of-Care Screening locations are led by pharmacists who are uniquely positioned to support those who are undiagnosed and experiencing symptoms during a time of uncertainty.”

During the HIV Point-of-Care Screening, an HIV test will be administered by a Walmart pharmacist, and while the test is running, the pharmacist will discuss other preventative measures like STI tests, contraceptive use, the need for a pregnancy test, medication that can treat or prevent the spread of HIV, vaccines a patient may need and more. The test is a simple blood sample, gathered through a finger prick and takes less than 30 minutes to return results.

A list of locations in Colorado that are offering HIV Point-of-Care Screenings include:

• Store #3566 – 9400 E Hampden Ave., Aurora, CO 80014
• Store #5334 – 3301 Tower Rd., Aurora, CO 80014
• Store #4288 – 4651 W. 121st Ave., Broomfield, CO 80020
• Store #2223 – 9499 Sheridan Blvd., Westminster, CO 80031
• Store #3533 – 7800 Smith Rd., Denver, CO 80207
• Store #1434 – 707 8th St., Colorado Springs, CO 80905
• Store #2125 – 7455 W. Colfax Ave., Lakewood, CO 80214
• Store #1001 – 4080 W. Northern Ave., Pueblo, CO 81005

The tests administered in the HIV Point-of-Care Screenings are not diagnoses and in the event of a positive result Walmart pharmacists will help patients work with their primary care physicians or the Department of Health to order a confirmatory test. To find more information on Walmart’s HIV Point-of-Care Screenings and SPOCs or make an appointment, visit our dedicated page here.

About Walmart

Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT) is a people-led, tech-powered omnichannel retailer helping people save money and live better - anytime and anywhere - in stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, approximately 255 million customers and members visit more than 10,500 stores and numerous eCommerce websites in 19 countries. With fiscal year 2024 revenue of $648 billion, Walmart employs approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide. Walmart continues to be a leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy, and employment opportunity. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting corporate.walmart.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/walmart, on X (formerly known as Twitter) at twitter.com/walmart, and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/walmart.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240624469415/en/

tyler.thomason@walmart.com

Source: Walmart Inc.

FAQ

What is the duration of Walmart's free HIV screenings?

Walmart's free HIV screenings are available until September 27.

Where has Walmart expanded its HIV Point-of-Care Screenings?

Walmart expanded its HIV Point-of-Care Screenings to 18 pharmacies in Colorado and Virginia.

What services are included in Walmart's HIV screenings?

The services include HIV tests, care coordination, medication management, and preventive healthcare discussions.

Who conducts the HIV screenings at Walmart pharmacies?

HIV-trained pharmacists at Walmart conduct the screenings.

How long does the HIV test at Walmart take?

The HIV test at Walmart takes less than 30 minutes to return results.