US-based Lakeland Regional Health has teamed up with Shields Health Solutions for improving patient access to speciality pharmacy services for complex and chronic conditions.

The collaboration focuses on conditions such as autoimmune diseases, cancer and multiple sclerosis, and aims to bolster care coordination throughout Lakeland Regional Health’s network by integrating Shields's speciality pharmacy care model and expertise.

Patients will receive personalised support services related to financial assistance programmes and navigating insurance coverage.

These services are intended to ensure timely access to essential therapies, help reduce out-of-pocket costs and enhance medication adherence.

The partnership’s initial focus will be on rheumatology and oncology, with plans to broaden to include other specialities.

Shields is presently collaborating with almost 80 health systems across the US, facilitating quicker access to medications, reduced co-pays, and enhanced clinical results.

Shields Health Solutions CEO Michael Ham said: “Lakeland Regional Health is known for delivering compassionate, high-quality care to patients across Central Florida.

“We’re proud to support their teams by expanding access to speciality medications and helping patients manage complex therapies more affordably and effectively.”

Lakeland Regional Health SVP, chief information officer, chief operating officer and Medical Center COO Ana Kalman said: “At Lakeland Regional Health, we are committed to removing barriers to care and ensuring our patients have access to the treatments they need. Partnering with Shields allows us to enhance our specialty pharmacy services and deliver even greater value to our community.”

Lakeland Regional Health provides outpatient and inpatient services through its Hollis Cancer Center, Medical Center and ambulatory care locations.

In May 2025, Shields Health Solutions partnered with US-based Duke Health to expand speciality pharmacy services.