Walmart to expand specialty pharmacies for HIV community

By the end of 2023, Walmart will have more than 80 Specialty Pharmacies of the Community locations across 11 states.

6/27/2023

Walmart today announced that by the end of 2023, the retailer will have more than 80 Specialty Pharmacies of Community locations across 11 states.

In a post on the company’s website, Kevin Host, senior vice president of Walmart Health and Wellness, Pharmacy said, “One of the most important parts of caring for a community is making sure you offer services that understand the unique challenges individuals face. That task can be tricky, but it’s also worth it because compassionate care can change lives."

Host continued, "Today, on National HIV Testing Day, we’re taking the next step, announcing the opening of 70 new HIV-focused Specialty Pharmacies of the Community in locations around the country – each chosen for our ability to make an impact among those who need it most."

Pointing out that these pharmacies play an important role in understanding and addressing the specialized needs of the people in our communities living with HIV, Host said, "Our team of HIV-trained pharmacists, technicians and Community Health Workers is dedicated to making a difference and helping patients navigate their health journey, removing barriers to care in every way we can."

Host went on to say that this month, as Walmart opened 70 SPOCs in Colorado, North Carolina, Texas, and Virginia and expanded its footprint in Florida, the retailer paired its openings with free HIV testing events. By the end of the year, he said Walmart will have more than 80 SPOCs open in 11 states.

Host continued, "Walmart has a history of working to eradicate HIV/AIDS. And for the people spearheading this program, like Aleata Postell, senior director of specialty pharmacy business development, the chance to improve HIV care and accessibility is personal. Her family friend was diagnosed with HIV years before revealing the diagnosis and searching for treatment. As sad as this truth is, this story isn’t uncommon. And we want to change that. In our work with the Elton John AIDS Foundation, we’ve learned a lot about the scale of the problem: 1 in 3 people living with HIV in the United States is not on regular HIV treatment. That’s why these SPOCs are so essential."

Host also noted that with 150 million people passing through its doors each week, Walmart has a unique opportunity to reach people who might not otherwise have access to or feel comfortable seeking HIV care.

"Located conveniently and discreetly inside a Walmart pharmacy, our SPOCs help people living with HIV manage every aspect of their condition, right where they’re already shopping for their everyday essentials. From discussing treatment options to conversations around mental health to sharing resources and helping navigate insurance options, we’re committed to holistic care," Host said.

“Our pharmacists work with the patient’s prescribers to partner on a treatment plan that is best for them,” Postell said. “Our pharmacists are an integral part of a patient’s care team – and that’s exactly how our pharmacy teams are trained.”

Host concluded, "We’re proud of our progress, but we believe there’s more to be accomplished. Next year, we plan to expand our focus to autoimmune conditions, including skin, joint and gastrointestinal conditions. With each SPOC launched, and each pharmacist or technician trained, we’re learning and growing toward even better care in the future."

For more information on locations, visit online here.

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