Virgin Pulse plans to merge with HealthComp in $3B deal

Virgin Pulse, a mobile-focused employee wellness and engagement firm, has announced plans to merge with HealthComp, a benefits and analytics platform. This merger, valued at $3 billion, aims to create a healthcare service for employers by leveraging technology and AI-driven data. The combined entity will use these tools to design health plans that enhance member well-being and reduce costs for both employees and employers.

Virgin's Homebase for Health platform will provide employers with tools for plan management, design, payment accuracy, preventive care, health guidance, and digital therapeutics. The venture will be supported by New Mountain Capital, Blackstone, Morgan Health (JP Morgan Chase's healthcare division), and Marlin Equity Partners, which acquired Virgin Pulse in 2018. Chris Michalak, the current CEO of Virgin Pulse, will continue as the CEO of the newly formed entity, with the deal expected to conclude in the fourth quarter of 2023, pending regulatory approval.

The merger aims to address the long-standing challenge of aligning healthcare costs with improved outcomes by streamlining benefit structures and placing member needs at the core of the healthcare ecosystem.