Walgreens delves deeper into value-based care with Pearl Health deal

Walgreens announced on Tuesday that it has teamed up with technology firm Pearl Health to expand value-based care options in collaboration with primary-care physicians. The Walgreens Boots Alliance division said the deal will allow it to reach more regions and patients, offering a broader set of solutions to providers and health systems.

"Our technology-powered value-based care model aligns seamlessly with the healthcare services Walgreens offers, particularly in the most vulnerable communities," remarked Pearl Health CEO Michael Kopko. He said the agreement would offer "a better solution to providers and ultimately deliver high-quality services to patients, while managing their care efficiently."

Pearl explained that its software and services help providers reimagine how they visualise and care for their patients, with its platform quickly identifying those who may be in need of extra attention. In January, the startup raised $75 million in a Series B financing round, bringing its total fundraise to that point to approximately $100 million.

From hospital to home

Under the partnership, Walgreens will provide services, including prescription fulfilment, medication adherence, immunisations, care gap closure and diagnostic testing. The retail giant will also work with providers to help patients discharged from the hospital transition to home.

Walgreens has been expanding its push into value-based care. The company has a major stake in primary-care service provider VillageMD, and investments in health system-owned pharmacy solutions through Shields Health Solutions. Last October, Walgreens announced plans to acquire full ownership of home care company CareCentrix, a deal that closed earlier this year.

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