111, Inc. (NASDAQ:YI) entered into a strategic cooperation agreement with Chugai Pharma China.
The agreement would allow the two companies to build a “Healthy China” by establishing a “SMART Healthcare City” concept through the use of digital drug distribution programs to expand the accessibility of treatment programs with modern logistics.
The accord also would provide patients with end-to-end innovative medical solutions and strengthen the comprehensive management of chronic diseases.
111 will leverage its advantages in Internet technology, intelligent supply chain, omni-channel drug commercialization and cloud service e-commerce, combined with Chugai’s extensive international experience, professional knowledge, and innovative medical solutions in the treatment of various diseases, to develop and implement a national medicine and Internet strategy.
“The Healthy China 2030 plan proposed by the Chinese government aims to provide equal access to quality healthcare to the public by 2030,” Yukimatsu Kunihiko, chairman and general manager of Chugai, said in a statement.
“In order to achieve this goal, chronic disease management will be a key factor for the entire healthcare system,” he added.
Mr. Kunihiko said the new strategic partnership with 111 will “enable us to help answer that call. I am deeply honored and firmly believe that this collaboration will be beneficial for bringing new, convenient and accessible medical solutions to more Chinese patients and their families.”
Dr. YU Gang, co-founder and executive chairman of 111, said Chugai’s “extensive knowledge and wealth of international experience will serve as significant assets as we work to achieve our mutual goal of providing patients with a full range of healthcare solutions.”
He said 111 would be able to provide a variety of resources, technology and platform support for Chugai. “Together, both enterprises will collaborate and share resources to bring more convenient medical services to patients with chronic diseases in China.”
Professor ZHANG Junfeng, director of the cardiovascular department of Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, JiaoTong University School of Medicine, the 111-Chugai partnership will allow cardiovascular patients to conveniently access educational materials regarding their diseases, treatment options, and effective disease management tools. “This will improve the patients’ quality of life, reduce costs, and provide doctors with additional tools to better help their patients.”
