Shares in retail giant Walmart (WMT) were flat today despite expanding its care services to include weight management for the millions of Americans turning to medication to control the pounds.
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GLP-1 Solutions
The company said it was expanding its Better Care Services platform with new offerings to bring together virtual care, nutrition services and pharmacy access.
That means it now includes weight management support services for customers exploring GLP-1 therapies. These are either via injections or tablets, which help stimulate weight loss. Examples include Novo Nordisk’s (NVO) Wegovy and Ozempic.
“With a nationwide pharmacy footprint, Walmart provides access to a broad portfolio of GLP-1 medications with a prescription, including newly available oral options such as Foundayo (orforglipron), available through insurance or cash,” Walmart said. “Customers benefit from same-day delivery in as fast as an hour in many locations, Free delivery is also available for Walmart+ members. In-store pharmacist support and digital tools further help customers manage prescriptions and navigate their treatment.”
AI Tackles Obesity
The Better Care Services platform now features obesity and weight management support offerings from Aaptiv, Berry Street, Curai Health, MyCare by Twin Health, and Wheel.
Aaptiv is a personalized fitness app, which offers so-called GLP-1 companion programming, while Berry Street combines AI with a nationwide network of Registered Dietitians to deliver personalized, evidence-based nutrition therapy. Patients work one-on-one with a dietitian and the Berry Street app between visits for guidance, meal tracking and health data integration. Curai Health is also an AI-supported, self-guided care experience designed to provide personalized coaching and virtual dietitian services.
MyCare by Twin Health supports people using GLP-1s who want lasting weight loss, whether they plan to stay on medication or transition off.
Walmart’s Pharmacy Boost
Walmart is also launching a redesigned GLP-1 digital destination on Walmart.com, helping customers explore related products and services, and find medically reviewed nutrition guidance.
According to the CDC, over 40% of U.S. adults live with obesity. “Access to medication is only one part of the equation, weight management today is often difficult to navigate, with patients managing multiple steps across care, medication and lifestyle changes,” said Kevin Host, Senior Vice President of Pharmacy at Walmart U.S.
It hopes the new venture will help boost sales at its almost 5,000 pharmacy outlets in the U.S.
In its recent Q4 earnings, Walmart said its overall “Health & Wellness” category had been a strong performer, driven by high demand for GLP-1 weight-loss drugs.
Is WMT a Good Stock to Buy Now?
On TipRanks, WMT has a Strong Buy consensus based on 28 Buy and 2 Hold ratings. Its highest price target is $150. WMT stock’s consensus price target is $138.85, implying a 11.31% upside.
