Shields Health Solutions and Sutter Health: A New Collaboration
Shields Health Solutions, recognized as a leading specialty pharmacy accelerator in the United States and part of Walgreens, is excited to announce the expansion of its collaboration with Sutter Health. This partnership aims to improve access to specialty medications for individuals managing chronic health issues, ensuring they receive the highest quality of care and services to enhance their overall health.
Expanding Access to Specialty Medications
The core objective of this partnership is to provide access to specialty medications that are crucial for treating a range of complex and chronic conditions such as cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. By optimizing care coordination, nearly 3,000 providers will be equipped to support patients more effectively. This strategic alliance aims to enrich the services offered at Sutter Health’s accredited specialty pharmacies: the Sutter Health Specialty Pharmacy located in Berkeley and the East Bay Advanced Care Pharmacy in Oakland.
Enhancing Patient Support Services
In addition to improved access to medications, patients will benefit from enhanced support services, including assistance with insurance navigation and financial help tailored to their unique needs. This comprehensive approach will not only provide greater access to specialized pharmacy services but also reduce overall healthcare costs while expanding treatment options and improving medication management.
Focus Areas and Future Expansion
Initially, the collaboration will prioritize areas such as oncology, rheumatology, and dermatology, with plans for future expansion. Currently, Shields Health Solutions collaborates with over 80 health systems nationwide to facilitate reduced co-pays and timely medication delivery, ensuring better medication adherence for patients.
A Commitment to Quality Care
Heidi Motz, executive vice president of commercial partnerships at Sutter Health, highlighted the significance of this partnership by emphasizing the dedication of Sutter’s clinical teams to provide exceptional care. She pointed out that through this collaboration, they are capable of securing access to 90% of limited distribution drugs and facilitating connections to restricted payer networks, thereby improving therapy management and making care more affordable.
Shaping the Future of Healthcare
Ryan Stice, PharmD and the chief pharmacy officer at Sutter Health, expressed the organization's commitment to enhancing patient access. He noted that improving access to specialty medications is a testament to their ongoing commitment to patient-first healthcare. Motivated by a passion for results, Shields Health Solutions and Sutter Health will work jointly to help pave the way for patients to receive the care they need.
Understanding Shields Health Solutions
Shields Health Solutions stands at the forefront of the specialty pharmacy sector across the country. With a powerful integrated solution known as the Shields Performance Platform, it focuses on enhancing drug access for specialty pharmacies. Shields is dedicated to elevating health outcomes for patients facing complex medical challenges while promoting growth within health systems.
With access to over 90% of limited distribution drugs and a proven clinical model that decreases total care costs by 13%, Shields Health Solutions partners with multiple health systems to ensure measurable success in clinical and financial outcomes. For more insights into their operations and offerings, one can visit their official site.
Discovering Sutter Health
Sutter Health operates as a not-for-profit healthcare system, committed to delivering comprehensive care throughout California. The organization focuses on health equity and innovative, high-quality patient care while serving nearly 3.5 million patients. Through its extensive network that includes hospitals, medical groups, and various outpatient services, Sutter aims to make top-tier healthcare more accessible and connected to the communities it serves.
As healthcare evolves, Sutter Health’s ongoing dedication to transforming care through innovative solutions demonstrates its commitment to being a leader in the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the goal of the collaboration between Shields and Sutter Health?
The collaboration aims to enhance patient access to specialty medications for chronic health issues such as cancer and rheumatoid arthritis.
What specific services will patients receive from this partnership?
Patients will benefit from improved medication access, insurance navigation support, financial assistance, and enhanced medication management.
Which areas of healthcare are initially being focused on?
The collaboration will initially focus on oncology, rheumatology, and dermatology.
How does Shields Health Solutions support health systems?
Shields collaborates with over 80 health systems to reduce co-pays, ensure timely medication delivery, and improve medication adherence.
Why is access to specialty medications important?
Specialty medications are vital for managing complex and chronic conditions, offering patients tailored treatment options and better health outcomes.
