Safeway Opens More In-Store AI-Powered Medical Clinics

Safeway shoppers in the Phoenix area can now pick up a gallon of milk and take care of any pesky medical issues at an in-store clinic powered by artificial intelligence and augmented reality. The grocery chain, which is owned and operated by Albertsons Companies Southwest, has rolled out five Akos Med Clinics in the Phoenix suburbs of Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Chandler, and Laveen.

The new Akos clinics add to the five existing ones in Safeway stores that opened last November, also in the Phoenix area. Another clinic will open later this week in Casa Grande followed by one in Boise, ID, in March.

The unique healthcare delivery model appeals to Safeway customers, according to James Bates, president and CEO of Akos Med Clinic. “Much like the self-checkout for groceries, patients appreciate the autonomy our clinics provide, as well as the affordability and speed,” he said. “Like many other things, artificial intelligence is changing how we consume healthcare, and our AI system is giving time back to providers to spend consulting with patients.”

Patients begin the process on a tablet or smartphone. AI guides them through registration, insurance validation, payment, and information collection required for diagnosis. Augmented reality guides the patient on how to use the available FDA-approved medical devices.

After AI asks follow-up questions and the onsite medical assistant takes labs, if warranted, a complete patient work-up is sent electronically to an Akos physician or nurse practitioner. Through a video consultation, the provider engages with the patient to diagnose and confirm a treatment plan formulated by the system. Necessary follow-up tests and/or prescriptions are ordered, and sent to appropriate healthcare partners.

The entire process takes about 20 minutes, often less. After the visit concludes, the system automatically charts the visit into the patient’s electronic health record and bills insurance. The clinics have staff on-site to assist patients throughout the process, and to clean the instruments between uses.

For questions, comments or concerns, please contact Jennifer Duell Popovec