The pilot stores, called HealthHubs, have space for services to help customers manage such chronic conditions as diabetes, hypertension and asthma. Each store also has an expanded health clinic with a lab for blood testing and health screenings. The stores will have respiratory specialists and dietitians on staff.
Beyond those services, there are also wellness rooms equipped to handle yoga classes and seminars.
“We’re pleased and surprised pleasantly with the ecosystem of healthcare that we’ve created here and how approachable it is, how much people are interested in it, and there are certain things we can take to all stores,” CVS Pharmacy President Kevin Hourican told CNBC.
While the new stores have less space for greeting cards, seasonal items and general merchandise, consumers can still find toys, candy and alcohol. In addition, consumers can buy more health-focused products, such as medical equipment and supplies for diabetes care and sleep apnea.
The stores, part of the company’s vision in acquiring health insurer Aetna, are designed to help the pharmacy chain become more of a convenient healthcare provider. After acquiring Aetna in November, CVS promised to transform its stores to improve the health of its customers and lower healthcare costs.
The new services in the stores are available to all CVS customers, not just Aetna members.
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