Retail Clinics

PHILADELPHIA — No matter the shape healthcare reform takes in the United States, the retail clinic industry will be a crucial cog. Today, healthcare reform means 33 million additional Americans with coverage, most likely split between Medicaid and low-cost providers. That will create a significant demand for cost-efficient solutions like retail clinics. 


WOONSOCKET, R.I. — As part of its broad support for patients with diabetes, and in recognition of American Diabetes Month, CVS Caremark announced on Thursday that it will be hosting live Facebook chats to answer patients' questions about diabetes and chronic condition management.

HOUSTON — With the holiday season just around the corner, RediClinic is encouraging consumers to enroll in its medically supervised weight-loss program, Weigh Forward, by offering $100 in free groceries at H-E-B when they enroll. The offer ends Dec. 31.

Weigh Forward, which was developed in partnership with weight-loss expert David L. Katz, M.D., kicked off on May 16 at all 29 RediClinic locations in H-E-B stores in Houston, Austin and San Antonio.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Meijer has launched a chainwide effort to position its pharmacy staff as diabetes specialists.

The announcement was made by Effie Steele, the chain's clinical services manager.

WOONSOCKET, R.I. — CVS/pharmacy and Direct Relief USA teamed up to provide free flu vaccinations at a flu shot clinic held Thursday in Dallas at Healing Hands Ministries Medical & Dental Clinic.

CHARLESTON, S.C. — The Johnson & Johnson Campaign for Nursing's Future will host the Promise of Nursing for South Carolina gala to raise funds and provide scholarships to help ease the nursing shortage in South Carolina.

CHADDS FORD, Pa. — The Food and Drug Administration has approved a drug made by Endo Pharmaceuticals for high blood pressure.

Endo announced Wednesday the approval of felodipine extended-release tablets in the 2.5-mg, 5-mg and 10-mg strengths. Endo's generic drugs division, Qualitest Pharmaceuticals, will manufacture and distribute the product.

The drug is a generic version of AstraZeneca's Plendil extended-release tablets. Felodipine had sales of about $84 million during the 12-month period ended in June, according to IMS Health.

WEST CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. — Hope Paige Medical has introduced a new line of short message, service-enabled medical jewelry that is designed to quickly provide patients' medical information via text message.