Wal-Mart drug program boosts Internet sales,

Wal-Mart drug program boosts Internet sales: "Wal-Mart Stores Inc.'s price reductions on generic prescription drugs have prompted a surge in orders to the company's Web site, said Walmart.com.'s chief executive officer.

The program, in which a month's supply of 314 generic drugs sells for $4, has been introduced in 27 U.S. states beginning in September. The company's online pharmacy has had ``triple-digit growth,'' the strongest increase in the Web site's history, as customers place drug orders and refills for pick-up in stores, said Walmart.com CEO Carter Cast.

More shoppers are going to Wal-Mart's Web site to buy prescription drugs."

Online shopping for drugs is going to be a major growth area. Not only is it far more convenient for patients, it will help to reduce costs ( as patients can shop for the cheapest option); and also improve safety ( clever online computer programs can prevent harmful drug interactions, and also alert patients to dangerous side effects). They can also help drug stores to increase their sales, because these programs can be used to email patients to remind them to refill their prescriptions !