WellDoc launches mobile prescription therapy for Type 2 diabetes

Baltimore-based healthcare technology company WellDoc has launched the first FDA-cleared mobile prescription therapy for Type 2 diabetes with insurance reimbursement, according to a company announcement. Called BlueStar, the patient-centered medical product requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider and will be "reimbursed and adjudicated" as a pharmacy benefit similar to other prescription products.

Powered by the proprietary WellDoc Automated Expert Analytics System, BlueStar provides real-time motivational, behavioral and educational coaching to help patients self-manage their diabetes treatment plan. The solution supports patients through smart blood glucose testing, healthy diet and exercise choices, medication adherence, and quality standards of care such as A1c tests, foot exams, and blood pressure and lipid levels.

In addition, BlueStar provides the patients' physicians with clinical decision support and enables them to efficiently extend care beyond traditional office visits. The product "works on feature and smartphone platforms, tablets and desktops to help patients comply with their treatment protocols while also analyzing important data to assist clinicians in developing personalized care plans," states the company.

BlueStar, the prescription version of WellDoc's DiabetesManager, will be available this summer in select areas followed by a nationwide launch later this year. Employees and covered dependents at Ford Motor Company and Rite Aid are among the first to have reimbursed access to BlueStar. Both companies are adding the product to its prescription benefit plans, which are managed by various health plans and pharmacy benefits managers, according to the press release.

WellDoc announced in October 2012 that it raised $508,600 in financing from the Sand Hill Group, a venture capital firm. The funding was part of the first round of a $10 million financial commitment from six angel investors including Sand Hill. WellDoc's DiabetesManager, a web/cell phone-based platform, received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in August 2010, allowing the system to be marketed to healthcare providers and adult patients with type 2 diabetes.

To learn more:
- read the announcement