HEALTHCARE SERVICES group United Drug has bought a speciality UK pharmacy homecare company through its joint venture with US group Medco.
The acquisition of Careology is part of United Drug’s strategy to expand its UK speciality healthcare business.
Careology, a former Genzyme subsidiary, provides specialist clinical services in the home for patients suffering from conditions such as haemophilia, psoriasis and pulmonary hypertension. The company also offers chemotherapy in a clinical setting through a team of oncology nurses.
Careology will be absorbed into Medco Health Solutions (UK), which United Drug formed with Fortune 500 pharmacy provider Medco earlier this year. The joint venture focuses on speciality pharmacy services which draw on IT systems.
Careology was established in 2005 after a management buyout of Genzyme’s speciality homecare business. The company offers its services both to NHS and private sector clients.
United Drug chief executive Liam FitzGerald said Careology’s areas of expertise complemented those of Medco Health Solutions.
No price was disclosed for yesterday’s deal, which is United Drug’s second acquisition in as many weeks. At the start of this month the Dublin-based group said it had bought UK events management company World Events Group for £13.5 million.
United Drug shares closed a cent up at €2 in Dublin last night.
