Google’s parent company focusing on healthcare in new start-up

Alphabet, the parent company of Google, has detailed some plans for a startup known as Cityblock, focusing on new care delivery methods in lower-income areas.

CNBC reports Cityblock’s goal is a “personalized care team” for each member along with a “neighborhood health hub” for patients to connect with doctors, coaches and tools to manage their health. These services would be provided without copays or deductibles to insured patients, with Cityblock currently pursuing arrangements with established insurers.

The approach has similarities to other primary care-focused models which have failed, such as UnitedHealth’s Harken Health or flat-fee primary care provider Qliance. One difference is Cityblock honing in on low-income communities.

"Nearly all innovation efforts have been focused on people with means," its site reads.

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John Gregory, Senior Writer

John joined TriMed in 2016, focusing on healthcare policy and regulation. After graduating from Columbia College Chicago, he worked at FM News Chicago and Rivet News Radio, and worked on the state government and politics beat for the Illinois Radio Network. Outside of work, you may find him adding to his never-ending graphic novel collection.

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