The Wall Street Journal reported that customers at Walmart stores may have an even faster, more integrated experience in the future, especially those who seek healthcare.
The retail giant and Verizon Communications are reportedly in talks to put 5G wireless service in select locations over the next year to improve digital health services. While specific details about the deal were not disclosed, the WSJ spelled out ways the partners could create a more streamlined patient experience. Patients could use the technology for:
• Streaming video interactions over a mobile phone
• Store medical data in an app that would detect when the patient arrives at the Walmart store
• Allow for self-registration
• Notifying the Walmart pharmacy that the patient needs a prescription
• Detect whether items customers place in their carts need to be restocked
Walmart has two health clinics at stores in Georgia and reported in February that patient volume had exceeded expectations; the company aims to add a third clinic this summer.
Chicago-based Rush University Medical Center became the first 5G hospital in January 2019. The technology allows faster internet speed to connect applications, devices, robotics and more streamlined hospital operations. Atlanta-based Emory Healthcare and the VA also recently reported partnerships with Verizon and others to bring 5G to their healthcare facilities.