VillageMD completes acquisition of Summit Health-CityMD, plans primary care across nation

VillageMD has completed its acquisition of Summit Health-CityMD, a move announced last year.

The $8.9 billion deal includes investments from Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc. and Evernorth, the health services business of Cigna Corp. The companies will have more than 680 provider locations in 26 markets, “combining VillageMD’s innovative platform and value-based care model with Summit Health-CityMD’s expertise delivering multispecialty and connected care,” according to the news release from VillageMD.

It's clear the companies aim to compete in primary care. Walgreens has touted its plan with VillageMD to have its pharmacies and the primary care clinics under one roof, with at least 200 planned by the end of last year and 600 practices by 2025. At least 50% would be in medically underserved areas.

In its press releases, Walgreens has announced joint clinics in locations ranging from Las Vegas, Nevada, to New Hampshire, Florida, and Arizona, with an expansion of 10 full-service primary care clinics in Massachusetts by early 2023.

VillageMD noted Summit Health-CityMD has a strong footprint in the northeast United States and Oregon.

“Our new organization will continue to be patient centered, physician led and committed to transforming the way health care is delivered in the United States,” VillageMD CEO and Chair Tim Barry said in a news release. “As we combine forces, our workforce of 20,000 people will have even more expertise, tools, and resources to provide the best care for our patients – whenever and wherever care is needed.

“Providing high-quality care with a focus on clinical outcomes in an exceptional patient experience is in the DNA of both organizations,” Barry said. “Together, we are poised to deliver on the promise of value-based care for more communities, families and individuals.”