Discount store chain Dollar General on Wednesday announced the hiring of its first-ever chief medical officer, in a move to widen its product range to offer healthcare products that include cold medication and dental supplies.

The Tennessee-based chain has never offered healthcare products. Many consumers in rural areas rely on Dollar Generals due to a lack of options. There had been requests for the retailer to add more affordable healthcare products.

“Our goal is to build and enhance affordable healthcare offerings for our customers, especially in the rural communities we serve,” CEO Todd Vasos said in a press release.

Dollar General said Dr. Albert Wu will serve as the chief medical officer. Wu helped deliver healthcare products to rural patients when he worked with McKinsey & Co.

Wu’s first job focus will be on relationship building with companies that create products.

There have been recent upgrades to many of the 17,500 stores across the country, including fresh produce and meats. There are also plans for these stores to add room for the isles of health products and for coolers of food.

Dollar General has added free COVID-19 testing to select locations in a partnership with the Virginia Department of Health.

Dollar General plans to offer its own branded healthcare product options.

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