CVS Health Inc. (NYSE: CVS) has officially launched its CVS virtual primary care offering, expanding the company’s digital health services and mental health support. The platform integrates virtual care teams with CVS Health’s in-person providers and other in-network professionals, giving patients a seamless, connected approach to health care. This move highlights CVS Health’s commitment to accessible, technology-driven care, particularly in the mental health space.
Currently, the service is available to select Aetna commercial health plan members, offering mental health services to adults aged 18 and older. Licensed therapists and psychiatrists provide telemental health care, while nurse practitioners and licensed clinical social workers staff the MinuteClinic urgent care services. By combining virtual and in-person care, CVS virtual primary care aims to create a more longitudinal and holistic experience, helping patients manage both physical and mental health in one place.
The platform was first announced in May 2022, consolidating CVS Health’s virtual mental health and primary care offerings. CVS Health projected availability for eligible Aetna members starting January 1, 2023, followed by CVS Caremark members in the second quarter. To power the service, CVS Health partnered with American Well Corp (Amwell, NYSE: AMWL) in August 2022, leveraging their telehealth technology for a robust CVS virtual primary care experience.
“CVS virtual primary care offers a more connected health care experience that supports patients throughout their health care journey,” said Dr. Creagh Milford, retail health senior vice president for CVS Health. “By taking a care team approach and utilizing technology, we can provide more longitudinal and holistic care to create stronger relationships between patients and their providers.”
Responding to Growing Demand for Digital Health
This launch comes as virtual health services gain popularity. A CVS Health-backed survey conducted by Market Measurement found that 59% of consumers value access to virtual services, and 71% believe virtual visits for mental health are more convenient. Nearly half (48%) said they would seek mental health services if a virtual option were available.
With CVS virtual primary care, patients can easily access licensed providers without the barriers of travel or scheduling conflicts. The platform aligns with changing consumer expectations, where flexibility, convenience, and integrated care are increasingly important.
How CVS Virtual Primary Care Fits Into the Broader Health Care Landscape
CVS Health’s expansion mirrors a broader industry trend. Last week, UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) announced that select members would receive free access to virtual behavioral health coaching. Hybrid models, combining in-person and digital care, are becoming the norm. CVS virtual primary care positions the company as a leader in this shift, offering coordinated care across multiple disciplines.
The service is designed to:
- Improve accessibility for adults 18 and older
- Support continuity of care through longitudinal management of health needs
- Offer convenience with both virtual and in-person options
- Provide integrated support from primary care, urgent care, and mental health professionals
By integrating mental health and primary care under one platform, CVS primary care creates a more connected patient experience and reduces care fragmentation, a persistent challenge in the U.S. health system.
Looking Ahead
As more consumers turn to telehealth, CVS primary care demonstrates the potential for technology-enabled, patient-centered health care. By combining mental and physical health services, CVS Health is setting a standard for how health care can be connected, coordinated, and convenient.
For patients and providers alike, the platform represents a major step forward in making comprehensive health care more accessible, more integrated, and easier to navigate. With CVS Health embracing virtual care, the company is not just reacting to trends—it’s shaping the future of health care delivery.
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