Publix, a Lakeland, Fla.-based grocery store chain, is partnering with Clearwater, Fla.-based BayCare Health System to offer retail pharmacies at a number of BayCare's hospitals, as well as walk-in care centers and health screening stations at Publix stores.
While the retail pharmacies are now open at multiple BayCare facilities throughout the state, by the end of the year, all Publix stores in Pinellas, Pasco, Hillsborough and Polk counties will feature BayCare HealthHubs. These self-service biometric screening kiosks will enable patients to send health information — such as blood pressure, pulse, weight and body mass index — directly to their physician.
Within the next two years, nearly 25 walk-in telehealth clinics will open in Publix locations in the four-county area. These sites will offer non-urgent medical care via remote access to board-certified physicians.
"It isn't just about filling prescriptions as patients leave the hospital; it's about providing a continuum of convenient medical care," said Fred Ottolino, vice president of pharmacy operations at Publix. "Having an additional option for non-urgent medical care in Publix stores provides a quick and easy alternative for customers to seek treatment for non-urgent conditions."
More articles on telehealth:
Policy researchers give CHRONIC Care Act 60% chance of passing Congress by end of year
Nearly all states have updated their telehealth laws since last year: 3 things to know
Opternative sues Warby Parker, claims company stole online eye exam tech