Walgreens, VillageMD to open 40 co-branded clinics by end of summer 2021
Walgreens and VillageMD are bringing 40 more of their Village Medical at Walgreens primary care clinics to four new markets and expand in its initial market of Houston. The two companies said Wednesday that the 40 clinics’ role out would begin with the first clinic outside of Houston with a Phoenix location opening on Dec. 14.
All told, Houston, as well as Texas markets of El Paso and Austin will get new clinics, as well Phoenix and Orlando, Fla. The new locations mark the companies’ opening salvo in their plans to open between 500 and 700 Village Medical at Walgreens clinics in some 30 markets over the coming five years. The clinic model began with five Houston locations that received positive feedback from patients and physicians, and it looks to bring care to underserved populations who are at greater risk of health disparities.
“Walgreens is proud to partner with VillageMD to offer the most comprehensive and large-scale roll-out of physician-led primary care services co-located in a retail pharmacy setting,” said Alex Gourlay, Walgreens Boots Alliance co-COO. “Our role as part of patient care teams has never been more critical, and our partnership with VillageMD enables us to provide more people with convenient access to high-quality, affordable care embedded in their communities.”
The new clinics also integrate pharmacists as key members of VillageMD’s physician-led care team, which the company said is meant to offer patients a full suite of primary care and pharmacy services at convenient Walgreens locations. The companies said the model is aimed at helping patients take the right medications and get the right doses when they are needed.
“In today’s complex healthcare environment, this integrated model of care is more important than ever. When patients adhere to the appropriate care and medication regime, health outcomes improve,” said Tim Barry, chairman and CEO at VillageMD. “At Village Medical at Walgreens, our experienced physicians and providers work closely with Walgreens pharmacists every day to ensure patients get accessible, personalized and coordinated care when they need it.”
Village Medical at Walgreens clinics will accept various health insurance options for its primary care offering, which incorporates in-person, at-home and telehealth visits.
As part of the announcement, Walgreens shared a video featuring Village Medical at Walgreens patients Christina Linsey Scott, a Houstonian who was diagnosed with lupus and received ongoing care and support at her local Village Medical at Walgreens location. See the video below.