| Document and Entity Information | Aug. 14, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | CVS HEALTH Corp |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000064803 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 14, 2019 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-01011 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 05-0494040 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | One CVS Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Woonsocket |
| Entity Address, State or Province | RI |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 02895 |
| City Area Code | (401) |
| Local Phone Number | 765-1500 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | CVS |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
