Apple Launching Employee Health Clinics, Integrated Health Plans
On the heels of a similar announcement by Amazon, JPMorgan, and Berkshire Hathaway, Apple has announced it will launch a group of health clinics for its employees and their families, according to recent reports.
Apple launched the AC Wellness Network, an initiative that will integrate clinics and health care services into the Apple employee network.
“AC Wellness Network believes that having trusting, accessible relationships with our patients, enabled by technology, promotes high-quality care and a unique patient experience,” the company wrote on a newly launched website for the initiative. “The centers offer a unique concierge-like health care experience for employees and their dependents.”
The site also emphasized that potential employment candidates “must have an appreciation for the patient experience and passion for wellness and population health—integrating best clinical practices and technology in a manner that drives patient engagement.”
The first two clinics will open in Santa Clara County, California—likely at the site of the new Apple “infinite loop” headquarters. A job posting on the site references employment at the “Apple Park Wellness Center,” and “multiple, stunning state-of-the-art medical centers.” This suggests that the initiative is currently further in development than the aforementioned plans of Amazon.
Initially, AC Wellness Network will only service patients and their families in the Santa Clara area.
According to reports, Apple CEO Tim Cook recently told investors on a call that the company is positioned to make a “significant contribution” in health care.
It is unclear if Apple will partner with a payer for this venture or develop its own, unique payment models. The company is currently hiring health care “designers” who will use population health management technology to emphasize preventative medicine in order to reduce health care spending.—David Costill
