Cigna’s recently launched health services business Evernorth last month set the ball rolling for the acquisition of leading telehealth company MDLive in its bid to build a new model of care delivery focused on affordability and personalization. Elaborating on the significance of the deal, Evernorth president and COO Eric Palmer said the use of virtual care solutions is poised to increase even after the Covid-19 pandemic ends. In December, Cigna had joined hands with MDLive to furnish plans to health members and help them obtain online appointments with psychiatrists and behavioral health counselors.
- Palmer feels the deal has given them a platform to increase the reach of MDLive’s capabilities to benefit clients and customers of both Evernorth and Cigna.
- In an interview to Becker’s Hospital Review, Palmer said Evernorth brings meaningful capabilities in the areas of benefits, which are delivery, pharmacy, and data and intelligence. He said the company wants to leverage those inclinations in a way so that a well intact interaction between customer and patient might be possible.
- Being partnered with MDLive has shown some positive outcomes. He said patients now have access to more suitable care interactions due to its greater affordability and simplicity. During Covid19, this partnership has saved thousands of lives by their different care solutions, he added.
- Palmer said, “MDLive and Evernorth will have near and long term opportunities to accelerate growth across a wide range of care solutions, from acute care to complex care and everything in between to improve health and the healthcare experience for our customers. These services through Evernorth will continue to be made available to health plans, directly to employers and to government programs and care providers to improve affordability and make a difference in the greatest number of lives.”