The news: CVS is expanding primary care services at its MinuteClinics via partnerships with health systems, per Modern Healthcare. The final word: We don’t see CVS’ MinuteClinic affiliations with healthcare providers as a signal that retail healthcare is making a comeback. CVS is in a different position from other retail clinic operators since it can steer Aetna members to its medical services. But consumers have made it clear that they’re not too interested in getting healthcare at drugstores where unhealthy items like junk food are sold—especially when there are a plethora of other options. Companies that want to stay in the retail clinic space would be wise to position their services around nutritious food items, OTC health supplements, and pharmacist support to show folks they’re serious about being a patient care destination.

The news: Walgreens Boots Alliance will be spun out into five standalone companies following its official sale to private equity firm Sycamore Partners. The final word: Walgreens tried to become a vertically integrated healthcare conglomerate, but it picked the wrong markets to invest in. Its rival CVS bought a pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) and a health insurer, both of which have contributed tremendous value to the parent company. However, Walgreens could find newfound success in retail pharmacy by positioning itself as a neighborhood drugstore destination that isn’t affiliated with unpopular PBMs and insurers while leaning into its pharmacists as highly trusted and accessible healthcare professionals.

Walgreens’ Q1 earnings report sends shares soaring: For its Q1 turnaround to translate into long-term success, the company will need to foster an improved experience that convinces customers to actually step foot in its stores.

Walgreens’ biggest healthcare moves in 2024: Amid a brutal year trying and failing to achieve profitability, the company prioritized operating with a leaner business profile and is even considering a sale.

Walgreens’ US healthcare segment is on the path to profit: Retail health investments take center stage as COVID-19 vaccinations plummet.

Big retail players jockey for healthcare positioning: We look back at noteworthy advancements made by retail health companies this year and how the top players stack up going into 2023.

Walgreens catches up to CVS with Summit Health acquisition: We examine the deal’s impact on the investing players as well as those who are falling behind in the retail health competition.

Walgreens-backed VillageMD eyes medical group acquisition: Walgreens’ interest in a merger with Summit Health aligns with its plans to capitalize on outpatient care.

Dozens of digital pharmacies have appeared in recent years, jostling for consumers’ attention alongside the digital twins of national retail chains and mass merchandisers. The threat of recession may send more consumers online, looking for lower prescription prices.

Telehealth wasn’t the only healthcare service to benefit from pandemic-induced lockdowns and restrictions in 2020. Retail health clinics—health centers located in retail stores—have grown in popularity as a convenient way to access simple health services.