The Anthem-Walmart program will launch in January 2019.

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Anthem, Inc. announced an arrangement with Walmart to advance the companies’ mutual goals of reducing healthcare costs and providing consumers with increased access to over-the counter (O-T-C) medicines and services that can improve their health.

The Anthem-Walmart program, launching in January 2019, will enable consumers who are enrolled in Anthem’s affiliated Medicare Advantage (MA) plans to use O-T-C plan allowances to purchase O-T-C medications and health-related items, such as first aid supplies, support braces, and pain relievers at Walmart’s 4,700 stores and on Walmart.com. The new collaboration is expected to improve access to these items while significantly reducing the out-of-pocket costs for those enrolled in Anthem’s affiliated MA plans.

“Creating a better healthcare future requires us to think differently about how we can develop innovative and meaningful healthcare solutions for consumers,” said Felicia Norwood, executive vice president and president, government business division, Anthem. “We are pleased to join with Walmart to create an initiative that combines Anthem’s deep understanding of the needs of senior consumers, with Walmart’s unwavering commitment to saving people money and developing a seamless shopping experience. We believe that programs like this can make a tremendous difference for healthcare consumers who often live on a fixed income or are managing chronic medical conditions.”

“Walmart is committed to making healthcare more affordable and accessible, and we are in constant pursuit of new ways to deliver on this commitment. We are thrilled to be working with Anthem to provide its Medicare Advantage members with convenient access to our broad assortment of high-quality over-the counter products – all available at everyday low prices,” added Sean Slovenski, senior vice president, health and wellness, Walmart U.S.

With more than 90% of Americans living within ten miles of a Walmart store and the retailer offering a number of services to ease consumers’ lives, including free two-day shipping with Walmart.com orders $35 or more (without a membership fee), which will also be available in the Anthem-Walmart program, this new initiative is expected to be important to older adults who seek more value for their money and a convenient shopping experience. According to the Social Security Administration, nearly a quarter of married seniors and four out of 10 unmarried older adults rely on their Social Security benefit, which averages just over $1,400 a month, for at least 90% of their income.