CVS Caremark says it has successfully positioned itself to pounce on new business created by health care reform: It estimates the federal expansion of health coverage will affect 32 million Americans,
generating upwards of 200 million prescriptions a year.
"We think this is a big opportunity for us," CVS Chairman/ CEO Tom Ryan told analysts and investors in a presentation in New York, which
was also webcast. "The key driver is the alarming growth of chronic disease in the U.S., with 140 million already affected by chronic disease, and 170 million going forward." Among those with these
illnesses, which include cancer, diabetes, hypertension, depression and heart disease, "more than half are either not adherent or have gaps in care," he says, "and 16% aren't even medicated."
That greater need for care "will improve our Maintenance Choice business, our Minute Clinic business, and our pharmacy sales."