In brief: Best Buy restructures, McKesson spins off, BOC responds, women reign
By HME News Staff
Updated 4:15 PM CDT, Mon June 2, 2025
MINNEAPOLIS – Best Buy initiated a major restructuring effort within its health business in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, incurring $109 million in restructuring charges.
These charges primarily stem from asset impairments and related costs, signaling a strategic shift as the company navigates challenges in the health care market.
Best Buy’s growing footprint in health care
In recent years, Best Buy has expanded aggressively into the health care technology space, forming strategic partnerships with leading health systems such as Mass General Brigham, Geisinger and Atrium Health. These collaborations aim to integrate consumer technology with clinical care, enhancing remote patient monitoring and in-home health services.
The company also recently began offering Dexcom G7 continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) through its online platform, further solidifying its role in the digital health and wellness market.
Industry reactions and strategic moves
Industry observers and stakeholders have been closely watching Best Buy’s health care strategy. According to a recent HME Newspoll, reactions to Best Buy’s partnerships and its acquisition of Current Health have been mixed, reflecting both optimism and caution about the retailer’s long-term role in health care delivery.
McKesson to spin off Medical-Surgical Solutions segment, focus on high-growth oncology and biopharma markets
IRVING, Texas – McKesson Corp. has announced plans to separate its Medical-Surgical Solutions segment into an independent company. This strategic move is aimed at sharpening McKesson’s focus on higher-growth, higher-margin opportunities in Oncology and Biopharma Solutions, aligning with its long-term enterprise strategy.
“Disciplined capital deployment and portfolio management are hallmarks of our strategy,” said Brian Tyler, CEO of McKesson. “This separation is designed to unlock significant value for both McKesson and Medical-Surgical Solutions, enabling each to pursue growth and operational excellence in their respective markets.”
Strategic realignment and growth focus
The planned spin-off reflects McKesson’s commitment to portfolio optimization and capital efficiency, allowing the company to intensify investments in sectors with strong growth potential. The new standalone medical-surgical supply and solutions company is expected to benefit from:
- A strong leadership position in alternate sites of care
- Attractive profit margins
- Accelerated growth potential across diversified health care markets
Oncology expansion through CORE Ventures acquisition
In a parallel move to strengthen its oncology footprint, McKesson recently acquired a 70% controlling interest in CORE Ventures for $2.49 billion. CORE Ventures, founded by Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (FCS), supports more than 250 physicians and 280 advanced practice providers across nearly 100 locations in Florida. This acquisition enhances McKesson’s capabilities in community oncology services and administrative support solutions.
What’s next?
McKesson is currently evaluating the form and timing of the separation and is committed to executing the transaction in a way that maximizes shareholder value. Additional details will be shared as the process advances.
Amid CMS action, BOC reaffirms commitment
OWINGS MILLS, Md. - The Board of Certification/Accreditation and CMS have agreed that the company won't accept new accreditation and reaccreditation applications in Florida, Texas, California and New York for a three-year period following misconduct by a former independent contractor.
BOC says CMS will review the status of the three-year pause on new accreditations and reaccreditations annually, and the company’s goal is to resume full activity in the four states in less than three years.
“BOC remains in good standing as a CMS-deemed accrediting organization,” said BOC President and CEO Judi Knott, MA, MBA, CAE. “The transgressions of a former independent contractor do not reflect BOC’s values or institutional practices. We are taking this matter seriously and are working closely with CMS to ensure continued compliance and maintain the high standards for which BOC is known.”
Which providers are impacted?
BOC says it continues to operate at full capacity in 46 states. The company says the action only impacts new and reaccreditation applications in the four states. It does not affect currently accredited organizations in those states.
“Current BOC-accredited businesses in Florida, Texas, California and New York remain fully accredited and recognized,” Knott said. “We are working collaboratively with CMS to comply with its instructions.”
How is BOC working with CMS to resume full activity?
BOC says it has already implemented enhancements to internal systems and oversight mechanisms, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to operational excellence. The company says these actions reflect its proactive approach and dedication to advancing quality assurance and public trust across the health care landscape.
Women of the Year: VGM announces finalists, OPGA calls for noms
WATERLOO, Iowa – The VGM Group has announced the finalists of the 2025 HME Woman of the Year:
- Ginger Walls, director of clinical and technical education, Permobil Americas
- Jennifer Jordan, vice president, baby and mom division, Aeroflow Health
- Robin Menchen, CEO, Rotech Healthcare
- Autumn Kline, director of sales and marketing, NuCara Home Medical
“These outstanding women exemplify significant contributions to their company, community and the home medical equipment industry,” said VGM in a post on LinkedIn. “Congratulations to all the finalists!”
VGM will announce the winner of the award at the Heartland Conference on June 10 at 1 p.m.
OPGA opens nominations
WATERLOO, Iowa – The Orthotic Prosthetic Group of America has opened the nomination period for the 2025 O&P Woman of the Year Award through July 11. Sponsored by Össur and presented by OPGA, this annual award is open to all women who work in the profession. “We are delighted to continue celebrating the exceptional women in the O&P profession with the O&P Woman of the Year Award,” said Nikki Grace, director of OPGA. “Entering its ninth year, this award not only highlights the significant contributions of women to the O&P profession but also underscores the vital role of the profession and the patients served daily.” Nominators are encouraged to provide examples of how the nominee has made significant contributions throughout her career to serve her patients, community, business and the O&P profession. They can make their nominations at www.vgm.com/oandpwomanoftheyear. The winner will be selected by a committee of O&P professionals and announced on Sept. 4, 2025, at 9:50 a.m. in the Product Preview Theatre during the AOPA National Assembly, taking place in Orlando, Fla.
Amazon simplifies medication management
SEATTLE – Amazon Pharmacy has announced two enhancements that it says will make medication management simpler, more accessible and more convenient for millions of customers across the U.S. The first enhancement: Customers can now use Amazon Pharmacy’s new feature for caregivers to help manage medications for family members or loved ones who need assistance. The second: Customers with Medicare insurance can now access PillPack from Amazon Pharmacy, making it easier to manage multiple medications with pre-sorted, labeled packets delivered right to their door. With PillPack, customers receive their medications packaged into personalized, tear-away packets organized and labeled by date and time.a “These updates deliver what our customers have been asking for—simpler medication management for themselves and their loved ones,” said John Love, vice president of Amazon Pharmacy. “Whether you’re a caregiver juggling multiple prescriptions for an aging parent, or a customer who could benefit from the convenience of pre-sorted packets delivered reliably each month, we’re removing barriers and making pharmacy work better for you.” Amazon Pharmacy accepts most insurance plans, including Medicare Part D nationwide and Medicaid in select states. The company says Prime members enjoy additional savings through programs like RxPass and the Prime savings that helps Prime members save up to 80% on thousands of generic and branded prescriptions, with no additional fees (beyond Prime), when paying without insurance. The PillPack service is free for Amazon Pharmacy customers.
HME wins award for repositioning system
RICHMOND, B.C. – HME has won the BC Care Provider’s Safety Product Innovation Award for the second time in three years. Following a 2023 win for the HME Signature Series Dove Mattress, this year’s award went to the HME Paraglide Repositioning System. “HME is committed to bringing high-quality, patient solutions to the market and as a Gold sponsor of the BC Care Providers Conference, we were thrilled to showcase the Paraglide as part of the 2025 BC Care Providers Safety Den competition,” said Robert Boscacci, CEO and co-founder. “Having seen the success of the Paraglide, which first launched in eastern Canada, HME brought the system to B.C. in 2024, and it is now in use in over 30 communities.” The Paraglide, manufactured by Canadian company MacKenzie Healthcare Technology, is an easy-to-use device that attaches to a wheelchair and safely and independently repositions a person from a slouched position to a properly seated, upright position with the touch of a button. HME now has nine locations and more than 85,000 square feet of office and warehouse space in Richmond, Victoria, Surrey, Nanaimo, North Vancouver, Kelowna, Sechelt and Abbotsford.
Lifeway Mobility earns consumer awards
HARTFORD, Conn. - Lifeway Mobility, a provider of stairlifts and a variety of other accessible solutions, has earned two Buyer’s Choice Awards from Consumer Affairs for its installations and customer service. Based on feedback from customers in verified reviews over the past year, Lifeway Mobility earned awards in the following categories: “Best Installation Experience” and “Best Customer Service.” “Our local teams at Lifeway Mobility take pride in providing mobility solutions customized to meet customer needs, improving their independence, safety and quality of life at home – all while ensuring a 5-star experience from initial contact through installation,” the company stated. The second annual Buyer’s Choice Awards recognize top-rated brands that consistently exceed customer expectations based on an analysis of verified reviews collected on ConsumerAffairs.com. Using proprietary technology, Consumer Affairs uncovers which brands create the strongest emotional connections with their customers, and consistently deliver trust, satisfaction and value during major life decisions, it says.
Health network opens new medical supplies location
ALLENTOWN, Pa. – Lehigh Valley Health Network, part of Jefferson Health, has opened Lehigh Valley Medical Supplies – Cedar Point to provide customized braces and other orthotics. The location will include LVHN’s first fabrication lab in the Lehigh Valley. LVHN has one other lab in Dickson City. “LVMS provides durable medical equipment and orthotic services for both adult and pediatric patients,” it stated in a release. “These devices can be used for healing and recovery, as well as long-term use. LVHN’s experts custom fit and manufacture orthotic and prosthetic devices. Properly fitting devices are key to a patient's success and quality of life.” LVMS was previously on Cetronia Road in Upper Macungie Township. LVPG Internal Medicine and Rehabilitation Services is also located within Lehigh Valley Health Network – Cedar Point offices.
Chuck Williams retires
WASHINGTON, Ind. – William Bros. Healthcare Pharmacy is celebrating the retirement of Chuck Williams, executive vice president of home medical equipment. During his 22-year tenure with the company, he played a pivotal role in shaping the HME division into a nationally recognized provider known for innovation, service expansion and industry advocacy, it says. “We are deeply grateful for Chuck’s years of service and leadership,” said Clay Williams, CEO of Williams Bros. “Through his vision and drive, we’ve grown our footprint, launched essential services that meet the evolving needs of patients and elevated our voice on critical issues affecting access to care.” Under Williams' leadership, Williams Bros. expanded its HME operations into numerous new markets, broadening access to care for thousands of patients across Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky. He championed the launch of several specialized service lines, including home modifications, continuous glucose monitoring, home ventilation and much more, enhancing the quality and convenience of home-based healthcare. He also worked on advocacy on a state and federal level through his involvement in AAHomecare, VGM Group and the Great Lakes Home Medical Equipment Association. “Chuck was never content with the status quo,” said Derek Johnson, vice president of HME. “Whether it was meeting with legislators or supporting grassroots campaigns, he brought both passion and credibility to the conversation around healthcare in the home.” Though he’s stepping down from day-to-day leadership, Williams will continue to be involved with the company in an advisory role, supporting leadership transition and certain strategic initiatives.
RingConn smart ring debuts at Target
LOS ANGELES – RingConn has announced that it has expanded the retail presence for its RingConn Gen 2 Smart Ring with sleep apnea monitoring through a partnership with Target. The ring is now available for purchase on Target.com, marking the company’s strategic entry into the U.S. mainstream consumer market. “This strategic retail partnership represents a significant milestone in RingConn's mission to bring advanced, user-friendly health technology to mainstream consumers through Target,” the company stated. Target shoppers can first order a sizing kit to determine their perfect fit before purchasing the smart ring. RingConn anticipates expanding the partnership into Target's brick-and-mortar stores in the future, enabling customers to directly interact with and experience its technology in person. The RingConn Gen 2 Smart Ring was launched in late 2024 and broke a Kickstarter category record with $4.4 million in crowdfunding. Since its establishment, RingConn has served more than 200,000 customers worldwide.
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