"We certainly see a role for MinuteClinic where we can complement and support the family physician by treating minor ailments and performing routine diagnostic tests," Merlo said. "That's an important part of our value proposition as we talk with payers. "We've demonstrated the benefits of in-store clinics within our own organization. Those of our colleagues who have access and use MinuteClinic, when adjusted for age and health status, had 8% lower overall health care costs last year than those who didn't. Everyone wants to ease the burden on primary care physicians and eliminate unnecessary trips to the emergency room. This is one way to do it."