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 exterior of the Twin Cities metropolitan space will be capable to use Homeward’s providers. The corporate presents in-home and community-based appointments in addition to digital care.
Homeward and Blue Cross mentioned they’re working to establish sufferers who’ve gaps of their care or aren’t at the moment receiving providers they want. They plan to broaden Homeward’s providers to extra counties as properly.
“Our settlement with Homeward is one other necessary 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 will likely be working with native hospitals, clinics and care techniques in every group to make sure that, collectively, we will work to unravel one of many greatest challenges within the healthcare system as we speak. We’re excited for the chance to extend our help for populations and communities which might 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 providers 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 fee was essential for healthcare supply in rural areas, significantly when providing providers like distant affected person monitoring.
“With a purpose to really be sustainable and use the care that it is advisable achieve success in care supply, I feel complete capitation is actually the one path ahead in rural markets,” she mentioned.
