Employers are increasingly dropping GLP-1 coverage for weight loss, pushing patients toward direct-to-consumer prescription programs, benefiting retail giants. Walmart, Costco, Amazon, and CVS are positioning themselves to capture new customers through these programs, with prices ranging from $199 to $449 per month depending on the platform. These retailers are betting on prescriptions as a gateway to long-term customer relationships, with refills considered the most reliable recurring customer interaction in the market. Independent pharmacies stand to lose significant volume as these programs expand, while their market share remains negligible compared to major chains. Experts warn that medications alone are insufficient, with patients achieving better outcomes when monitored by specialized clinicians.
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