Main Takeaways
- The merger of Mercalis and PharmaCord, backed by Permira and Odyssey Investment Partners, forms Valeris—a platform aimed at streamlining how life sciences companies bring therapies to market through integrated patient support, data, and provider engagement tools.
- Valeris intends to transform the commercialization process by improving patient access, reducing barriers, and supporting long-term adherence, positioning itself as a next-generation partner for biopharmaceutical companies.
Mercalis, a life sciences commercialization partner, and PharmaCord LLC, a provider of patient services for the biopharmaceutical industry, have officially merged.1 Per the development, the result is a rebrand of the combined company—Valeris—that is backed by global investment firm Permira and Odyssey Investment Partners.
News of the deal originally surfaced back in March,2 during which the intention was made create a “total solutions provider” for the biopharmaceutical sector—one that is expected to offer solutions ranging from patient services to market access, in an effort to cover the entire commercialization process.
“This combination is about more than growth—it’s about impact and transformation to meet evolving manufacturer and patient needs. By uniting PharmaCord’s deep expertise in hub services with Mercalis’s established leadership in end-to-end patient access solutions and robust infrastructure, we are building a next-generation platform that redefines how life science companies bring innovative therapies to market,” said Rob Truckenmiller, Valeris’ CEO. “Together, we will unlock new efficiencies, accelerate patient access, create a seamless experience for healthcare providers and patients alike, and provide a highly compelling opportunity for employees.”
Permira partner Jon Maschmeyer also added at the time that “The combination of PharmaCord and Mercalis will form one of the largest independent patient access companies in the market, delivering the full breadth of solutions with greater reach and efficiency. “With our support, the combined company will have the resources to continue innovating and catering to the evolving needs of patients and biopharmaceutical companies. We look forward to the opportunity to raise the bar for patient access and drive the industry forward.”
What does this mean for the industry?
According to the involved parties, the development creates a combined platform that is expected to positively impact how life sciences companies bring their therapies to market, while simultaneously forming a provider patient support services for the biopharmaceutical sector.
“To remain effective and relevant, patient support must evolve, shifting from commoditized models to dynamic, data-driven ecosystems designed for long-term value,” Truckenmiller added. “With deep expertise in patient support services and market access, an advanced technology infrastructure, and an experienced commercial team, Valeris is fully committed to power life sciences companies and enhance patient lives.”
By combining data and strategic insights, patient support services, and healthcare provider engagement tools, Valeris values bolstering the patient experience in a process that involves simplifying access, removing barriers, and promoting adherence throughout the commercialization journey.
“Valeris is the product of over 33 years of industry expertise,” noted Scott Dulitz, the company’s president. “This brand marks more than a name change— it signals our commitment to leading progress in healthcare. By bringing together proven capabilities under one purpose-driven organization, we’re making the path from diagnosis to patient outcomes more seamless, more supported, and more human. We’re built to help our partners thrive in today’s complexity— and shape what comes next.”
References
1. Valeris Launches with a Fully Integrated Vision for Life Sciences Companies. Mercalis. May 27, 2025. Accessed May 28, 2025. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/valeris-launches-with-a-fully-integrated-vision-for-life-sciences-companies-302464683.html
2. PharmaCord, Mercalis Merge in an Effort to Support the Patient Journey. Pharmeutical Commerce. March 12, 2025. Accessed May 28, 2025. https://www.pharmaceuticalcommerce.com/view/pharmacord-mercalis-merge-support-the-patient-journey
