The Obama administration has reached out to the nation’s pharmacies to assist in the last-minute enrollment of the nation’s uninsured. And, no doubt anticipating something in return later on, they have responded.

Major pharmacy chains CVS and Walgreens are partnering with the administration to alert the public to the availability of free or reduced cost health insurance, reports the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

In all, more than 38,000 drug stores have agreed to promote the final days of 2016 enrollment. HHS said they’ve agreed to mount in-store enrollment events and will have staff trained to help people sign up on site.

Folks can apply through Jan. 31, but the deadline for obtaining coverage that takes effect Jan. 1 is Dec. 15.

“This strong participation is further indication that businesses are investing in Open Enrollment because they believe it is good for their business and for their customers,” HHS Secretary Sylvia Mathews Burwell said in a statement.

Instant Insights /

Pharmacies respond to White House enrollment appeal

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