Walmart expands employee health benefits with 250-plus drugs

Walmart plans to expand health benefits for employees, offering more than 250 prescription drugs at no cost under most medical plans and adding specialist evaluations and paid leave. The medication changes include certain GLP-1 drugs for eligible workers with Type 2 diabetes, beginning in 2027, according to information shared by the company with employees. The GLP-1 coverage will require prior approval and is for treating Type 2 diabetes, not weight loss. The expanded medication list also includes certain insulin products and inhalers. Walmart said the benefits will apply to employees enrolled in its medical plans; the company’s employee memo and benefits information describe the drug coverage. Walmart will also provide eligible employees being evaluated for or diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, access to no-cost specialist evaluations or treatment reviews through Mayo Clinic or Cleveland Clinic. The benefit is an expansion of the company’s Centers of Excellence program, which offers specialized care for certain conditions.