Shields Health Solutions, a Walgreens-owned speciality pharmacy company, has announced a collaboration with Sutter Health to improve the accessibility of speciality medications for patients with chronic, rare, and complex conditions in the US.

This partnership aims to offer support services, including insurance navigation and financial assistance, along with specialised pharmacy services.

Nearly 3,000 providers will benefit from enhanced care coordination as a result of the partnership.

The companies are increasing their efforts to support patients by reducing costs, offering a wider range of treatment options, and enhancing medication management.

The initial focus of the collaboration will be on oncology, rheumatology, and dermatology, with plans to extend into other areas in the future.

Shields Health Solutions Commercial Partnerships executive vice-president Heidi Motz said: “Sutter’s clinical teams are known for providing safe, high-quality care to patients with distinctive needs.

“We complement the care they give by securing access to 90% of the limited distribution drugs and opening the door to restricted payer networks, helping improve therapy management, as well as helping make care more affordable and more coordinated.”

As Shields has an expansive access to payer networks, the partnership will enable patients to have more choices in their speciality pharmacy services, and will be able to consolidate their care through Sutter Health.

Shields Health Solutions currently collaborates with over 80 health systems nationwide, claiming to assist in lowering co-pays, ensuring timely medication delivery, and improving adherence to medication regimens.

Sutter Health's dual-accredited speciality pharmacies, Sutter Health Specialty Pharmacy in Berkeley, and East Bay Advanced Care Pharmacy in Oakland, will leverage Shields' integrated infrastructure and industry expertise to further support Sutter’s care teams.