When Wal-Mart throws its weight behind a concept, it has a high chance for success. So champions and supporters of their retail clinic concept will be pleased to hear that Wal-Mart plans to launch 2000 clinics in its stores over the next five to seven years, giving a significant boost to the still-emerging primary care model. Wal-Mart isn't planning to go into the healthcare business directly, however; it expects to keep contracting with providers, who will lease space in the stores.
The retail chain has been in the clinic business since 2005 and has already launched 76 walk-in clinics in 12 states. These clinics have been a success, at least from a public relations perspective. Wal-Mart CEO describes the clinics as "a great opportunity for our business," but also stressed that the clinics could improve access to care. The move follows Wal-Mart's recent $4 generics campaign that received huge publicity despite the program's sharp limits on the drugs it offered. The summary was reported by Fierce Newsletter, and this United Press International article has more details.
The same concept can be applied by retail chains in other countries too. For example, 7to9 Retail Stores, which is a portfolio company of 7Avenues, the company which I am involved in, has also been considering such a move because it makes the value of the retail store by increasing its contribution to the local community.
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