Walmart is expanding its presence in Medicare through a new partnership with SCAN Health Plan, bringing co-branded Medicare Advantage plans to select markets in Texas and Arizona for 2027.
According to an October 7 report from Fierce Healthcare, the partnership combines SCAN's Medicare Advantage experience with Walmart's pharmacy services, retail network, and technology capabilities.
For independent Medicare agents, the announcement introduces new plan options to watch as the 2027 Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) approaches.
Beginning January 1, 2027, SCAN and Walmart plan to offer two co-branded products:
Specific benefits, eligibility requirements, provider networks, and cost-sharing will vary by plan and service area. Agents should review official plan materials before discussing coverage with clients.
The plans are expected to be offered in nine counties across two states for 2027.
|
Texas |
Arizona |
|---|---|
|
Bexar |
Maricopa |
|
Chambers |
Pima |
|
Fort Bend |
Pinal |
|
Harris |
|
|
Liberty |
|
|
Montgomery |
These markets include the Houston and San Antonio areas in Texas, along with the Phoenix and Tucson regions of Arizona.
SCAN estimates the new offerings will reach markets containing approximately two million Medicare-eligible individuals. This represents the potential eligible market, not projected enrollment.
Fierce HealthcareOne of the more interesting elements of the partnership is Walmart's Everyday Health Signals technology.
The platform uses information from participating consumers' shopping activity to provide personalized wellness insights, including nutrition guidance, over-the-counter product considerations, and other health-related recommendations.
Participation is optional, and the program is designed to help connect everyday purchasing decisions with broader health management.
For agents, this signals a growing trend in Medicare Advantage: carriers are looking beyond traditional insurance benefits to incorporate retail services, technology, and personalized member engagement.
The SCAN-Walmart partnership is worth watching for several reasons.
1. More competition in key Medicare markets
The addition of co-branded offerings creates another option for beneficiaries to evaluate, particularly in competitive Texas and Arizona markets. Agents should understand how these products compare with existing coverage.
2. Greater emphasis on supplemental benefits
Pharmacy savings, over-the-counter allowances, dental coverage, and vision benefits remain important considerations for many Medicare beneficiaries. However, agents should evaluate the complete plan, including provider networks, prescription formularies, out-of-pocket costs, and eligibility requirements.
3. Retail partnerships could influence future plan designs
SCAN's partnerships with Walmart and Costco suggest that retail collaboration is becoming part of its Medicare Advantage strategy. These arrangements could influence how other carriers approach member services and benefit delivery.
4. New opportunities to expand carrier portfolios
Agents serving eligible markets may want to explore SCAN Health Plan as part of their carrier portfolio. However, the availability of independent broker appointments and commissions for the specific Walmart co-branded products has not yet been confirmed.
Agents can explore existing SCAN Health Plan contracting opportunities through PSM Brokerage.
With AEP running October 15 through December 7, now is a good time to review carrier offerings and prepare for client conversations.
Focus on understanding new plan availability, reviewing provider and prescription coverage, and identifying which clients may benefit from a comprehensive plan comparison.
Agents should also confirm their carrier appointments, certifications, and ready-to-sell status before marketing or discussing specific products.
For additional preparation resources, explore PSM Brokerage's 2027 AEP Preparation Guide and AEP Marketing Toolkit.
As Medicare Advantage continues to evolve, having access to a diverse carrier portfolio can help independent agents evaluate more coverage options for their clients.
PSM Brokerage supports independent agents with carrier contracting, product education, marketing resources, and personalized support.
Interested in adding SCAN Health Plan to your portfolio?
Request Your SCAN Health Plan Contract Through PSM Brokerage
Contracting and product availability are subject to carrier approval, applicable appointments, certifications, and market-specific distribution arrangements. Availability of the Walmart co-branded plans through independent agents has not been confirmed.