Walmart delivers more than 300,000 screenings

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — “America's Biggest Health Fair” debuted Saturday, delivering more than 300,000 diagnostic screenings across more than 4,400 Walmart locations. 

 

"We chose blood pressure and glucose screenings for the Health Fair event [because] customers are busy, and taking time for your pesonal health can really be a challenge," Alex Hurd, senior director product development and portfolio management for Walmart's Health and Wellness business, told Drug Store News. "The blood pressure and glucose really are two bio-markers that are important indicators for your overall health," he said. "Knowing your numbers is a critical step in overall wellness and prevention."

 

Based on population health management statistics, Walmart executives believe they will enlighten more than 3,000 customers that they may be diabetic and more than 7,000 who may have high blood pressure.

 

"Walmart is building on our commitment to make health care and healthier food more affordable and accessible," Hurd said. "We've outlined new ways we're helping customers live healthier lives [and] we're focused on preventative care and supporting overall well-being across our entire assortment."

 

In addition to blood pressue and glucose screenings, Walmart offered vision screenings and product samples. In addition, more than 10,000 of Walmart’s licensed pharmacists were on hand to administer immunizations in select stores. 

 

And Jackson Hewitt licensed insurers were present at some 250 locations to help customers identify the best insurance plans for them, whether they are shopping for a plan on the Health Exchange or their best Medicare option.