Walmart pilots script reader for visually impaired

Walmart announced Friday (June 8) that it is piloting a test program with En-Vision America to offer ScripTalk, a talking prescription system that provides those who cannot read standard print a safe and easy way to access the information on their prescriptions.

ScripTalk is being offered to customers with visual impairments across the country through Walmart Mail Order and in three test stores. The program is free to Walmart pharmacy customers who are blind or visually-impaired.

ScripTalk is available nationally through Walmart Mail Order and in the pharmacy at the following stores:

    214 Haynes St., Talladega, AL 35160
    2270 W. Main St., Tupelo, MS 38801
    601 Englewood Pkwy., Englewood, CO 80110

"For more than 21.5 million Americans living with significant vision loss, properly identifying and taking prescription medications is challenging because they can't read container labeling," said Paul Schroeder, vice president for programs and policy, American Foundation for the Blind. "The Walmart pilot program addresses this often overlooked public health challenge."

A prescription provided with ScripTalk has an electronic chip embedded in the standard print label. To hear the information on the chip, the customer simply places the prescription container on the ScripTalk device and presses the button.

"This announcement demonstrates Walmart's significant leadership in serving its customers with visual impairments," said Mitch Pomerantz, president, American Council of the Blind.

Interested customers who either presently fill or would like to fill prescriptions through Walmart Mail Order or at the pilot stores listed can contact En-Vision America at 800-890-1180 to request a free ScripTalk Talking prescription reader.