TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- WellCare Health Plans, Inc. WCG announced today it has expanded its value-based care partnership with VillageMD, a leading national primary care provider, to include its network of provider practices in Georgia and Illinois. WellCare members already have access to VillageMD's provider partners in Kentucky and Texas.

Under the partnership, WellCare will collaborate with VillageMD to drive quality-based improvements and better health outcomes for its members.

"Expanding our relationships with VillageMD into Georgia and Illinois reinforces our commitment to align more of our members with providers who focus on high-quality healthcare," said Sue Podbielski, WellCare's vice president, network performance. "VillageMD's evidence-based, preemptive approach to care that empowers both physicians and members aims to improve health outcomes particularly for those living with complex medical challenges."

VillageMD's proven high-value model of care has driven results across multiple markets and patient populations. Its patient-centric approach has been recognized by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for its high-quality and high-performance metrics.

"We are excited to partner with WellCare in these additional markets," said Tim Barry, VillageMD's CEO. "Working together to deliver high-quality care in an efficient manner allows physicians and patients alike to enjoy the benefits of healthier communities."

VillageMD includes more than 2,500 physicians across eight markets and is responsible for approximately 500,000 lives. For more information about VillageMD, visit www.villagemd.com.

About WellCare Health Plans, Inc.

Headquartered in Tampa, Fla., WellCare Health Plans, Inc. WCG focuses exclusively on providing government-sponsored managed care services to families, children, seniors and individuals with complex medical needs primarily through Medicaid, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans, as well as individuals in the Health Insurance Marketplace. WellCare serves approximately 5.5 million members nationwide as of September 1, 2018. For more information about WellCare, please visit the company's website at www.wellcare.com.  

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SOURCE WellCare Health Plans, Inc.