"Teleclinic has established itself as a valuable and popular extension of healthcare for patients and physicians. Furthermore, it gives physicians the opportunity to offer their expertise more flexibly and from any location. We are delighted that Teleclinic is becoming an integral part of the Zur Rose Group's digital healthcare system in Germany and Europe,"
explained Katharina Jünger, founder and CEO of Teleclinic.
The startup has a Online health platform launched, allowing patients to speak with a specialist from anywhere. During the coronavirus crisis, Teleclinic saw significant growth in usage: The number of treatments increased by 250 percent between the end of January and the beginning of May and the duration of consultations increased to 1,000 hours, says the startup. Since March, the Munich-based company has been offering free consultations via video chat for people suspected of being infected with the novel virus. Against this backdrop, the Zur Rose Group expects the Munich-based company to further expand its market position.
Teleclinic as part of the “European health ecosystem”
In addition, Teleclinic is authorized to issue digital prescriptions and medical certificates that comply with German health insurance reimbursement regulations. This makes the startup a key building block for the Swiss group's future plans: The Zur Rose Group sees itself as a healthcare ecosystem that allows consumers to manage their own health with "just one click," as the group puts it in a press release. From consultations and prescription issuance at Teleclinic to prescription redemption at Docmorris, everything can be obtained through the Zur Rose Group in the future. Walter Oberhänsli, CEO of the Zur Rose Group, explains:
"As the largest e-commerce pharmacy on the path to becoming a healthcare ecosystem in Europe, we see our mission as empowering people to manage their health. With Teleclinic as an integrated player in the Zur Rose healthcare platform, we will be able to offer digital solutions that enable patients to live better lives, in addition to our medication and pharmacy product portfolio."
The purchase price is in the mid-double-digit million euro range; further details were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to close at the end of July 2020.
