Meijer has begun a partnership with Homeward, a technology-enabled rural health platform, to improve healthcare access and care coordination for medicare-eligible residents across Michigan.
According to Meijer, rural Michiganders face health and economic disparities compared to those living in urban areas, with lower median household incomes, fewer primary care providers and higher rates of chronic conditions like diabetes.
The lack of reliable broadband access may limit their ability to participate in virtual care, while higher levels of food insecurity and reduced access to specialized services underscore the need for improved healthcare solutions in rural communities.
Through the partnership, eligible Meijer pharmacy customers will gain access to comprehensive health management support, including help with coordinating preventive care, simplifying medication access and addressing social factors that impact their overall well-being.
The Homeward Navigation platform will leverage advanced analytics to connect eligible seniors to care and local resources. The partnership will leverage Meijer’s strong presence across the state, particularly in rural areas.
In addition to its footprint in rural counties of the Upper Peninsula, all 43 Lower Peninsula counties served by Homeward have a Meijer pharmacy within the county or an adjacent one.
“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 Homeward Co-Founder and CEO Jennifer Schneider.
“This partnership underscores Homeward’s commitment to meeting the unique needs of each community by building tailored care models that make it easier for people to access the quality care they need to get and stay healthy.”
Jackie Morse, group VP for pharmacy and health, said Meijer is committed to delivering services and products that enhance the well-being of customers and communities.
“Through our partnership with Homeward, we are enhancing care coordination for rural Michiganders, helping them navigate healthcare services, access the support they need and address key social determinants of health,” she said. “By fostering better collaboration between patients and healthcare providers, this partnership ensures patients receive high quality, coordinated care.”
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