The nation’s largest virtual care provider is teaming up with the nation’s largest retailer. Teladoc Health announced on Thursday that its services are now available through Walmart’s Better Care Services platform.
The collaboration brings Teladoc Health’s suite of offerings — including virtual urgent care, dermatology and nutrition services — to customers seeking both insured and cash-pay options. This is the latest in a series of steps the company has taken to expand access to care by integrating with established platforms.
“Walmart is where millions of Americans already go for everyday needs, and now, getting care from Teladoc Health can be part of that same experience,” said Kelly Bliss, Teladoc Health’s president of U.S. Group Health. “By removing friction and meeting people where they are, virtual care becomes something people choose first, not just something they can access.”
The cash-pay price for Walmart customer is $89 per visit.
“Health care should be easier to access, easier to understand and more affordable,” said Leslie Fletcher, vice president of strategy and partnerships for Walmart U.S. Health & Wellness. “By adding Teladoc Health, we’re continuing to expand Better Care Services with more options for care, paired with fast, convenient access to everyday health needs and prescriptions.”
This partnership is the latest in a growing trend of major retailers offering telehealth services. Last year, Amazon folded its telehealth marketplace into its primary care chain, One Medical, unifying its health care delivery services under a single brand. Telehealth services can benefit employers in several ways.
- Reduced costs. Telehealth visits typically cost less than equivalent in-person appointments. For employers, this translates into lower claims expenses and reduced premiums over time. Employees also benefit through lower co-pays and reduced out-of-pocket costs. When telehealth is integrated with employer-sponsored health plans, routine care — such as treatment for colds, flu, allergies and minor injuries – often can be delivered for less than the cost of urgent care or emergency room visits.
- Increased productivity. With telehealth, employees can schedule appointments around their workday rather than taking extended time off to travel to a clinic. Many telehealth visits can be completed during breaks or before or after work hours, minimizing disruption. This convenience reduces sick leave usage and helps employees return to full productivity sooner.
- Job satisfaction. Employees value benefits that are easy to use and that meaningfully improve their lives. Telehealth ranks high in employee satisfaction surveys because it provides convenience, immediacy and flexibility. When employees feel supported by their employer’s benefits package, overall job satisfaction increases. Telehealth can contribute to a more positive workplace culture, where employees feel cared for and valued. This, in turn, enhances employee retention, reduces turnover costs and strengthens employer-employee relationships.