Blue Cross and Blue Protect of Minnesota introduced it had entered right into a full-risk value-based care association with hybrid startup Homeward that goals to extend entry for rural Minnesotans.
The insurer and the agricultural healthcare startup stated Medicare Benefit members in 24 Minnesota counties exterior of the Twin Cities metropolitan space will be capable of use Homeward’s companies. The corporate affords in-home and community-based appointments in addition to digital care.
Homeward and Blue Cross stated they’re working to establish sufferers who’ve gaps of their care or aren’t presently receiving companies they want. They plan to increase Homeward’s companies to further counties as properly.
“Our settlement with Homeward is one other necessary step for Blue Cross’ nationally acknowledged Medicare Benefit plans,” Dr. Mark Steffen, senior vp and chief medical officer at Blue Cross and Blue Protect of Minnesota, stated in a press release. “Blue Cross and Homeward might be working with native hospitals, clinics and care methods in every group to make sure that, collectively, we are able to work to resolve one of many greatest challenges within the healthcare system at this time. We’re excited for the chance to extend our help for populations and communities which can be in want of extra healthcare assets.”
THE LARGER TREND
Homeward launched nearly a year ago with a $20 million funding from Normal Catalyst. The startup, led by vets from continual care firm Livongo, is targeted on offering care in rural communities, the place residents are at greater risk for poor health outcomes in contrast with their city counterparts.
Homeward has since partnered with pharmacy chain Rite Aid to attach seniors with scientific companies like wellness visits and screenings. It additionally introduced a $50 million Series B round in August, the place it revealed its first value-based care partnership with Precedence Well being in Michigan.
Final summer time, Homeward CEO Dr. Jennifer Schneider told MobiHealthNews shifting away from fee-for-service cost was essential for healthcare supply in rural areas, significantly when providing companies like distant affected person monitoring.
“In an effort to truly be sustainable and use the care that it is advisable to achieve success in care supply, I believe whole capitation is de facto the one path ahead in rural markets,” she stated.