HEALTH


BENTONVILLE, Ark. — It’s the kind of low-price power play that gives smaller-scale independent pharmacy owners — and chain drug store operators too, for that matter — the willies. In what promises to be another potent and potentially market-altering exercise in massive scale and competitive clout, Walmart has linked up with insurance heavyweight Humana to launch what it says will be the lowest-cost prescription drug plan for seniors who rely on Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage.


Looking to bolster sales and better serve its customers, Walmart has stepped up its engagement with suppliers to review its assortment and bring in more new and innovative products — and the beauty department is no exception.



NEW YORK — Walgreens. Costco. CVS Caremark. Rite Aid. H-E-B. Wegmans. Kerr Drug. The list goes on. In all, it was a veritable who’s who of retailing as Drug Store News’ annual Industry 
Issues Summit, which also included a Specialty Pharmacy Roundtable and Diabetes Roundtable, attracted more than 200 attendees — a new attendance record — and featured the most diverse retail panelists to date.


CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. — The need to communicate crucial health conditions to 
medical personnel responding to an accident or unresponsive patient is becoming more important, especially considering the increase in such chronic conditions as diabetes or allergies. And that need is expected to become a crucial driver behind the sale of fashionable medical alert bracelets.

PASADENA, Calif. — A new study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that the use of tobacco products among young diabetics is on the rise, and many haven't been counseled by their healthcare providers to not smoke or stop smoking.

Supplier News — Cirrus Healthcare Products recently introduced its ClearEars product, earplugs that contain a polymer that draws water from the ears. ClearEars also is appropriate to alleviate symptoms of glue ear, a condition in which thick, sticky fluid collects behind the eardrum.


NEW YORK — Aubrey Organics, a maker of natural hair, skin and body care products, introduced in November new fragrances for its shave formula and glycogen protein balancing shampoo and conditioner.

For a silky-smooth shave, there's the new crème de la shave. The moisturizing formulas are available in five natural scents, including the new white tea and citrus and pomegranate scents. They join the existing lineup of toasted almond, orange cream and raspberry honey.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Simplify, simplify.