Insurer to ask outside review of experimental treatment
Article Abstract:
Empire Blue Cross and Blue Shield has announced that it will begin referring all coverage decisions regarding investigational or experimental treatments to an independent medical review board. The insurer's new policy addresses long-standing concerns regarding the denial of experimental treatment as a method for reducing expenditures. The panel is likely to review treatments related to implantable insulin pumps, heart-lung transplants and autologous bone marrow transplants for breast cancer.
Publication Name: American Medical News
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0001-1843
Year: 1997
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National Blues unveil program for multistate employers
Article Abstract:
The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association announced a service to allow national corporations to enroll all employees in one healthcare plan. The service is called BluesConnect and links at least 26 Blue Cross Blue Shield plans under one administrative umbrella. Network Management Services and Health Benefits America are also participating in the service and more Blues are expected to join. The plan is hoped to make Blue Cross Blue Shield more competitive with national managed care offerings.
Publication Name: American Medical News
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0001-1843
Year: 1997
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Polls: mixed messages about managed care
Article Abstract:
Contradictions in survey results on managed care reveal that although most Americans are satisfied with their own level of care, they are still distrustful about the industry in general. Other factors that influenced survey responses include survey wording, infrequent visits to doctors by respondents, and media coverage.
Publication Name: American Medical News
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0001-1843
Year: 1998
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