A Study on
Walmart
Insurance Services LLC.
September 18, 2020 Report
September 18, 2020
Report
Walmart Insurance Services LLC
The new Avatar of Walmart
Walmart has consistently ranked number 1 on the Fortune 500 listing since 2014 and with their entrance into the Medicare Advantage ecosystem it looks like they intend to stay on top. While it may be a shock to some that Walmart, one of the biggest names in the retail industry, is entering the Medicare industry, there are signals that this has been a prolonged target since the early 2000’s.
A Timeline of Walmart's Healthcare Ecosystem Strategy
Conclusion
According to Bloomberg, in 2018, Walmart’s pharmacy, optical, and OTC drug business generated $36 billion in revenue. With the introduction of Walmart Insurance Services LLC, coupled with the aggressive expansion strategy of their Health Centers, Walmart is sending a clear signal that they intent to disrupt the healthcare ecosystem, including Medicare Advantage. With cheaper alternatives and complete vertical integration, their business strategy looks at providing consumers the lowest cost of healthcare possible with maximum reach. The current healthcare environment, shaken up by the COVID-19 pandemic, may also work in Walmart’s favor. By providing Clinical options, in convenient locations, with medical care & medication fulfillment at highly competitive rates, has the potential to allow rapid expansion and gain customer loyalty.