CVS Health teams up with MassChallenge, Rock Health to spur innovation

CVS Health said on Wednesday that it is partnering with top startup accelerator MassChallenge in Boston and digital health venture fund Rock Health in San Francisco to spur innovation and expand areas of focus for connected health solutions.

"We know that some of the best digital health innovations are already being developed, so we've made partnering a key part of our digital efforts," Brian Tilzer, senior vice president and chief digital officer for CVS Health, said. "We have broad scale and resources; MassChallenge offers a competitive startup accelerator program and Rock Health has an impressive portfolio of market-leading companies. By working collaboratively with each, we can rapidly design and test new ideas, ultimately bringing solutions to our customers that will dramatically impact the way they manage their health."

By entering into a relationship with MassChallenge, CVS Health furthers its connections in the Boston technology community, where it opened up a Digital Innovation Lab earlier this summer.

"We've seen steady growth in the number of digital health startups that are seeking entrepreneurial resources," Scott Bailey, managing director of MassChallenge Boston, said. "We hope that by working with CVS Health, these startups will gain access to an even greater network of resources, helping them to develop their products, make new discoveries and rapidly grow their businesses."

The relationship with Rock Health will enable Rock Health's portfolio to engage directly with CVS Health.

CVS Health is reinventing pharmacies to have a more active, supportive role in health care.