Ohio House Healthcare Access and Affordability Committee hears testimony from insurers

Testimony from a top executive of United Healthcare to the House Healthcare Access and Affordability committee opined that programs in which patients choose physicians with the best performance histories and participation in wellness programs has reduced medical costs and has had a positive impact on patients’ health status. Mr. Sullivan said the company has created a United Health Premium program to help Ohioans find the highest quality doctors who have the best outcomes. He stated that use of “premium-designated” physicians, typically produces cost savings of between 25% and 35% compared to non-premium doctors. UHC has also seen benefits from the Lifestyle Management and Accountability program that seeks to get people involved in health care and how their funds are spent. He also noted that 76% of callers to the company’s 24/7 Nurse Line have opted not to seek treatment in costly emergency room settings.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield representatives also testified before the committee that their company is also using several efforts to reduce costs and create incentives for customers to make decisions regarding their care. Anthem hopes to increase transparency of service costs, provide information to members on alternatives as well as cost and quality information.

The AMCNO has met with the Northern Ohio medical directors for both UHC and Anthem regarding their various programs. If any AMCNO member has comments or concerns about either company or their programs, contact the AMCNO professional relations staff at 216-520-1000, ext. 103.