Homeward, based in San Francisco, California, recently announced a strategic partnership with Rite Aid to provide access to comprehensive care to older adults and others living in rural areas across the US.

Research has shown that pharmacists are among the most trusted members of a local community, especially for the more than 50% of Americans living with a chronic condition, according to Homeward. Therefore, beginning this summer, the company will partner with Rite Aid to connect underserved older adults with providers and other clinical services.

Rite Aid pharmacists will be able to introduce Medicare-eligible customers to Homeward’s clinical services, including annual wellness visits, screenings, and risk assessments. In addition, Rite Aid will host Homeward’s mobile care units at select rural Michigan locations to provide care and services to underserved communities, with the goal of expanding to additional markets nationwide.

“As we rearchitect health and care for rural Americans, we must consider the specific needs of millions living in these communities and so-called healthcare deserts. In these areas, we can’t assume that ‘if you build it, they will come.’ Instead, we’re creating convenient opportunities for care within the daily lives and routines of rural Americans,” said Dr. Jennifer Schneider, CEO, Homeward.

Rite Aid President and CEO Heyward Donigan, noted, "By partnering with Homeward, we will use our scale and suite of services to help close gaps in care and improve medication adherence.”

Homeward providers see members both in community-based, mobile clinics and in members’ homes, and care teams conduct physical exams, perform basic diagnostic tests, and when needed, refer members to regional health systems and specialists if more complicated diagnostics are required. The organization's technology-enabled model also includes virtual visits and in-home, cellular-based remote monitoring that keeps patients connected to their multidisciplinary care team

Read the press release and more information about the company on the Homeward Health site, here