DEERFIELD, Ill. — Walgreen Co. has been awarded accreditation as a specialty pharmacy provider from URAC.

The drug store chain’s Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy subsidiary is operated by its managed care division, Walgreens Health Services, a national provider of injectable and biopharmaceutical medications aimed at serving patients living with complex, chronic health and medical conditions.

URAC is a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit health care accrediting organization that establishes quality standards for the health care industry.

"We are very excited to have been awarded full accreditation as a specialty pharmacy provider from URAC," Michael Nameth, executive vice president at Walgreens Health Services, said in a statement released Tuesday. "Patients who have been prescribed specialty medications often face significant challenges with life-changing illnesses, such as managing difficult therapies and in dealing with the financial burdens associated with their treatment. Walgreens is fully committed to providing our patients with the best support possible as they face these challenges."

Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy provides personalized care and services through dedicated fulfillment centers nationwide and electronically linked Walgreens pharmacies, including locations in academic medical centers, community hospitals and physician office buildings. The unit assists patients in obtaining medications, coordinates insurance benefits and provides individualized therapy management and clinical support.

"By applying for and receiving full accreditation as a specialty pharmacy provider, Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy has demonstrated a commitment to quality health care," stated Alan Spielman, URAC president and chief executive officer. "Quality health care is crucial to our nation’s welfare, and it is important to have organizations that are willing to measure themselves against national standards."