WOONSOCKET, R.I. — CVS Health announced that it is opening Oak Street Health primary care clinics at some of its retail pharmacy stores.

CVS Health acquired Oak Street Health in May of 2023, picking up about 169 medical centers in 21 states. The acquisition was aimed to broaden CVS Health’s value-based primary care platform and significantly benefit patients’ long-term health by improving outcomes and reducing costs – particularly for those in underserved communities.

“Across CVS Health, we’re focused on connecting consumers to their care in ways that provide the seamless access and personalized care they need – when they need it and where they want it. Earlier this year, we opened our first Oak Street Health centers side-by-side with CVS Pharmacy locations in Houston and Garland, Texas. By putting Oak Street Health’s trusted primary care offerings for Medicare-eligible adults and CVS Pharmacy services side by side, close to where patient work and live, we’re increasing access to care in the community,” said the company in a statement.

“Beyond increasing access, additional goals of this model include improving patient outcomes, enhancing the patient experience and enabling care delivery. Improving medication adherence can have a significant impact on health outcomes. Pharmacists can help patients manage their medications, improve adherence, address affordability, coordinate delivery and address concerns or questions. Additionally, offering a more convenient experience can increase patient engagement.

By optimizing the team-based care model, Oak Street Health and CVS Pharmacy can better support patients by providing convenient access to high quality pharmacy and primary care in a convenient location,” the company added.