NationsBenefits, a provider of supplemental benefits and healthcare fintech solutions, has announced a partnership with Dollar General. This collaboration integrates NationsBenefits’ proprietary Basket Analyzer Service (BAS) across more than 20,000 Dollar General locations nationwide, aiming to enhance access to affordable and nutritious foods, over-the-counter (OTC) products, medications, and other eligible essential wellness items for millions of health plan members.
The Basket Analyzer Service (BAS) is a technology platform designed for real-time adjudication of eligible items at the point of sale. Health plan members can use their NationsBenefits Benefits Mastercard® Prepaid Card* for seamless transactions. This system is designed to streamline the shopping experience while maintaining compliance with health plan guidelines.
Michael Parker, co-CEO of NationsBenefits, commented on the partnership, stating, “According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), more than 19 million people in the U.S. live in USDA-defined food deserts, and for many of our members, Dollar General is the closest or most convenient store. This integration significantly enhances our ability to support more customers across the country and geographically dispersed populations. By welcoming Dollar General into our retail network, we are enabling members to use their benefits in a way that fits their lifestyle and needs while empowering them to make healthier choices.”
Dollar General’s extensive retail footprint often serves underserved communities, with approximately 75 percent of Americans residing within five miles of a Dollar General store, and about 80 percent of their locations situated in communities with fewer than 20,000 residents. This partnership seeks to overcome barriers related to access and affordability, aligning with NationsBenefits’ mission to address social determinants of health (SDoH), improve population health, and achieve better outcomes for members.
Emily Taylor, Dollar General’s chief merchandising officer, stated, “Our partnership with NationsBenefits will provide increased and affordable access to numerous health and wellness products for our customers and their families.”
This collaboration leverages Dollar General’s widespread presence and NationsBenefits’ technology to impact social determinants of health, with the goal of ensuring underserved populations have greater and more affordable access to resources for healthier lives.
NationsBenefits is a leading provider of supplemental benefits and fintech solutions to the healthcare industry. The company partners with managed care organizations to deliver healthcare, data analytics, gap closure, and fintech solutions, with the aim of driving growth, reducing costs, and improving member experiences. NationsBenefits combines its technology with targeted retailer partnerships to empower health plans in delivering impactful supplemental benefits, optimizing member experiences, and fostering better health outcomes. The organization seeks to improve members’ quality of life through its suite of offerings by simplifying processes and expanding access to benefit solutions.
*The Benefits Mastercard® Prepaid Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard and the circles design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated. Card can be used for eligible expenses wherever Mastercard is accepted. Valid only in the U.S. No cash access.