Mercy expands virtual health resources for Humana Medicare members

Mercy Health and Humana have signed an agreement to expand patient access to virtual health resources as part of joint effort for more care for Humana Medicare Advantage members. Mercy said these goals are especially vital given the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new initiative applies to Humana Medicare Advantage members who are patients of Mercy in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma.

“This agreement unites two organizations striving to offer care that is more accessible, personalized and coordinated – a commitment that is more important than ever right now,” said Jeremy Gaskill, Humana regional Medicare president. “We’re pleased to broaden our efforts to improve the health and well-being of people in the communities we serve by teaming up with Mercy, an organization that shares our dedication to innovation in health care.”

Key features of the collaboration include access to Mercy Virtual that is often called a “hospital without beds.” Mercy Virtual is staffed with more than 300 clinicians, it offers 24/7 care such as virtual primary care in the home. Mercy said payment to Mercy physicians by Humana is linked to providing quality care in order to improve patient experience and outcomes. This differs from the traditional “fee-for-services” models based on quantity of services.