Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) and Microsoft Corp. have joined forces to develop new health care delivery models, technology and retail innovations aimed at improving the future of health care. The companies will combine Microsoft Azure, Microsoft’s cloud and AI platform, health care investments, and new retail solutions with WBA’s customer reach, locations, outpatient health care services and industry expertise in an effort to make health care delivery more personal, affordable and accessible.
The multifaceted partnership includes a plan for WBA to pilot up to 12 store-in-store “digital health corners” aimed at the merchandising and sale of select health care-related hardware and devices in 2019. The companies will also work on connecting WBA stores and health information systems to people through their digital devices.
As part of the strategic partnership, the companies have also committed to a multiyear research and development (R&D) investment to build health care solutions, improve health outcomes and lower the cost of care. This investment will include funding, subject-matter experts, technology and tools. The companies will also explore the potential to establish joint innovation centers in key markets.