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 mentioned Medicare Benefit members in 24 Minnesota counties outdoors of the Twin Cities metropolitan space will have the ability to use Homeward’s companies. The corporate provides in-home and community-based appointments in addition to digital care.
Homeward and Blue Cross mentioned they’re working to determine sufferers who’ve gaps of their care or aren’t at present receiving companies they want. They plan to increase Homeward’s companies to extra counties as nicely.
“Our settlement with Homeward is one other vital step for Blue Cross’ nationally acknowledged Medicare Benefit plans,” Dr. Mark Steffen, senior vice chairman and chief medical officer at Blue Cross and Blue Protect of Minnesota, mentioned in a press release. “Blue Cross and Homeward might be working with native hospitals, clinics and care programs in every neighborhood to make sure that, collectively, we will work to unravel one of many greatest challenges within the healthcare system right now. We’re excited for the chance to extend our assist for populations and communities which might be in want of extra healthcare sources.”
THE LARGER TREND
Homeward launched nearly a year ago with a $20 million funding from Common Catalyst. The startup, led by vets from power care firm Livongo, is concentrated 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 medical 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 season, Homeward CEO Dr. Jennifer Schneider told MobiHealthNews transferring away from fee-for-service cost was essential for healthcare supply in rural areas, notably when providing companies like distant affected person monitoring.
“As a way to really be sustainable and use the care that you want to achieve success in care supply, I believe whole capitation is de facto the one path ahead in rural markets,” she mentioned.
