Humana’s CenterWell is pursuing robust expansion in senior-focused primary care, planning to establish 50 new centers by 2025. With the aging U.S. population, their approach combines geographical growth with a strong commitment to improving patient outcomes. Leveraging data and technology innovation, CenterWell focuses on delivering quality care for seniors. Their comprehensive, team-based approach, extended appointment times, and efforts to address social determinants of health set them apart. They also operate as community centers, enhancing patient well-being. In addition, their in-home primary care program ensures holistic care beyond clinic boundaries, promoting positive patient outcomes.
Humana, a leading Medicare Advantage insurer, has set ambitious growth targets for its CenterWell senior-focused primary care business. The company plans to open 50 new primary care centers by 2025, signaling its commitment to meeting the healthcare needs of an aging population. This endeavor reflects not only geographic expansion but also a dedication to improving patient outcomes and leveraging technology innovation to provide better care.
With the U.S. witnessing approximately 10,000 people turning 65 every day, according to U.S. Census data, the demand for primary care and specialty care services is on the rise. By 2030, all baby boomers will be at least 65 years old, further increasing the demand for healthcare services tailored to seniors.
CenterWell, a division of Humana, operates more than 272,000 senior patients at hundreds of centers in 12 states. Despite the rapid geographic expansion, the organization is not solely focused on acquiring more patients and expanding its footprint. Dr. Erica Savage-Jeter, the division’s Chief Medical Officer, emphasized that their primary goal is to ensure patients have better clinical outcomes and spend less time being sick. The emphasis is on quality care and improved patient well-being.
The CenterWell business is also investing in technology innovation, with a focus on harnessing data and analytics to enhance patient care. The utilization of various applications and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), plays a pivotal role in their model. The integration of technology is not just about growing the number of centers and patients but about maintaining a laser-like focus on delivering the best possible clinical outcomes for patients.
In addition to senior-focused primary care clinics, CenterWell also encompasses Humana’s home health business, which is another strategic focus area. It is closely related to the Conviva Care Center brand and includes CenterWell Pharmacy, a combination of mail-order, retail, and specialty pharmacy operations. These different business units collaborate to provide a comprehensive, team-based approach to healthcare, addressing patients’ specific needs.
CenterWell’s team approach is what sets them apart. This approach allows them to support patients who may be challenging to manage, such as those who are non-adherent to treatment plans. By offering a “wraparound” service, they can help patients navigate the healthcare system, connect with specialty care, obtain medications, and access the necessary resources. This comprehensive approach is the key to helping patients reach their health goals.
One of the unique aspects of CenterWell’s care model is that it provides physicians with longer appointment times. This extended interaction between doctors and patients allows for in-depth discussions about all aspects of a patient’s health. Establishing a strong patient-provider relationship is crucial for getting patients involved in their care and action plan. When patients are empowered to take an active role in their health, it becomes possible to drive positive changes across the entire population.
Dr. Savage-Jeter highlights the fact that up to 80% of a person’s health is determined by non-clinical factors, such as social determinants like access to nutritious food and financial resources. In addition to addressing medical needs, CenterWell clinicians play a vital role in connecting patients with community resources to address these social determinants. For example, the primary care centers collaborate with local community partners to help patients access nutritious food.
Many of CenterWell’s clinics serve as more than just medical facilities; they operate as community centers. These centers offer a variety of programs and activities that empower patients, combat isolation and loneliness, and promote physical activity and independence. Patients can participate in exercises, teaching sessions, and classes, fostering socialization and improving overall well-being.
In August, CenterWell introduced its in-home primary care services for seniors in select locations in Georgia and Louisiana. This initiative, known as the Primary Care Anywhere program, leverages the capabilities of Heal, a company acquired by Humana. Being part of the Humana network enables CenterWell to take an integrated approach to care. This approach extends beyond the clinic to patients’ homes, ensuring that medicines are delivered and patients receive education on their use from the pharmacy team. The ultimate goal is to achieve positive outcomes for patients by extending care outside the clinic boundaries and into patients’ homes.
Overall, Humana’s CenterWell is committed to aggressive growth in its senior-focused primary care business, driven by the increasing demand for healthcare services for seniors. However, their primary focus is on delivering high-quality care and ensuring that patients have better clinical outcomes. This commitment is reinforced by their investment in technology innovation and the integration of emerging technologies like AI. The team-based approach, extended appointment times, and focus on addressing social determinants of health make CenterWell a leader in the field of senior-focused primary care. Their community-focused clinics, which serve as more than just medical facilities, exemplify their dedication to patient well-being. By expanding their care to patients’ homes through the Primary Care Anywhere program, CenterWell aims to provide integrated, comprehensive healthcare solutions, furthering their mission to improve the lives of seniors across the United States.
