What You Should Know:
– WellTheory, a first-of-its-kind virtual platform designed for the 50 million Americans living with autoimmune disease, has partnered with Sentara Health Plans—part of the integrated, not-for-profit Sentara Health system—to deliver personalized, whole-person care
– This collaboration focuses on improving outcomes for underserved communities while reducing high healthcare costs associated with autoimmune conditions.
WellTheory Partners with Sentara Health Plans to Deliver Personalized Autoimmune Care for Underserved Populations
.This collaboration focuses on improving outcomes for underserved communities while reducing high healthcare costs associated with autoimmune conditions.
Addressing a Growing Cost Driver in U.S. Healthcare
Autoimmune diseases, encompassing over 100 distinct diagnoses, cost the U.S. healthcare system more than $100 billion annually and represent a growing share of pharmacy spend. At Sentara Health Plans, a significant portion of total medical and pharmacy costs stem from autoimmune-related care. The WellTheory partnership is projected to reduce overall spend by decreasing reliance on expensive interventions and improving long-term outcomes.
• The 12-month program includes a 6-month intensive phase followed by a 6-month maintenance phase
• Care begins with a proprietary Root Cause Assessment to identify symptom drivers
• Each member receives a dedicated care team: a registered dietitian, board-certified health coach, and care coordinator
• The program includes 1:1 virtual visits, unlimited messaging, digital tools, educational content, and peer support
Closing the Care Gap through High-Touch Virtual Support
“WellTheory was built to close the care gap millions face in their autoimmune journeys,” said Ellen Rudolph, CEO and Co-Founder of WellTheory. “I personally experienced the financial and emotional burden of seeking answers and effective care. Through this partnership, we’re bringing compassionate, effective support to those who need it most.”
Sentara’s Broader Mission and Commitment to Innovation
Sentara Health Plans serves over one million fully insured and self-funded members across Virginia and Florida. As part of Sentara Health—one of the largest not-for-profit health systems in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic and Southeast—this partnership aligns with the organization’s 135-year mission: “We improve health every day.” With 12 hospitals (10 of which hold Magnet® recognition), 34,000 employees, and numerous accolades for quality, innovation, and workforce excellence, Sentara is committed to pioneering personalized, cost-effective healthcare solutions.
