Meijer has begun a strategic partnership with Homeward, a technology-enabled rural health platform, to improve healthcare access and care coordination for medicare-eligible residents across Michigan.

What You Should Know: – Homeward®, a technology-enabled rural health platform dedicated to expanding access to quality healthcare, and Meijer, a privately owned, family-operated Midwest retailer, today announced a strategic partnership aimed at improving healthcare access and care coordination for Medicare-eligible residents across Michigan. – The strategic collaboration will leverage Meijer’s extensive pharmacy network and Homeward’s innovative health management platform to better serve rural communities.Addressing Significant Health Disparities in Rural MichiganRural Michiganders often face considerable health and economic disparities compared to their urban counterparts. These challenges include lower median household incomes, fewer primary care providers, and higher rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes. Furthermore, limited reliable broadband access can hinder participation in virtual care, while issues like food insecurity and reduced access to specialized services underscore the pressing need for improved healthcare solutions in these communities.Enhanced Care Coordination and AccessTo address these needs, the Homeward and Meijer partnership will focus on making healthcare more accessible and navigable for seniors throughout Michigan. Eligible Meijer pharmacy customers will gain access to Homeward’s comprehensive health management support, which includes assistance with coordinating preventive care, simplifying medication access, and addressing social factors that impact overall well-being. Homeward’s Navigation™ platform will utilize advanced analytics to connect these eligible seniors to appropriate care and local resources, with the goal of effectively addressing social determinants of health and improving holistic health outcomes.“We are proud to partner with Meijer, a trusted, family-owned retailer deeply rooted in the communities we serve. Grocers and pharmacies are among the most frequented and trusted places in rural areas, and our partnership will make care delivery and support more convenient and accessible across rural Michigan,” said Dr