IBC Press Releases

IBC Signs on as Presenting Sponsor of ADA's Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EST

Philadelphia, PA - August 18, 2008 - Independence Blue Cross (IBC) today announced that it is the presenting sponsor of the American Diabetes Association's (ADA's) Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes to be held in Philadelphia on Saturday, October 4, 2008.

The new family- and team-friendly 5K fundraising walk will support the ADA's aggressive efforts to stem the growing diabetes epidemic by funding ground-breaking research to find a cure and by actively supporting community outreach, education, and advocacy efforts. Philadelphia's Step Out is one of more than 180 walks planned across the nation this fall to raise more than $20 million to fight diabetes. The goal in Philadelphia is to raise more than $400,000.

"We're pleased to help improve the health of our members and others with diabetes by joining with our local American Diabetes Association as the presenting sponsor of Step Out in Philadelphia," said Joseph A. Frick, IBC's president and CEO. "Step Out is a great way to inspire all of us to make our health a priority, live a healthier lifestyle, understand our risk for diabetes and how to prevent it, as well as how to better manage diabetes once it's been diagnosed."

Everyone pays a price for diabetes
Diabetes is one of the most important health challenges facing the nation and the Philadelphia region. Nearly 24 million Americans have diabetes, including about six million who don't know they have it. Another 57 million are estimated to have pre-diabetes, an early warning signal that alerts people to quickly take steps to avoid getting diabetes, such as eating healthier, exercising regularly, and reducing stress.

Diabetes takes a devastating toll on the Philadelphia area. About 11 percent, or one in nine people here, have diabetes - nearly three percent higher than the national average.

The seventh leading cause of death by disease in the U.S., diabetes may lead to serious, life-threatening, and costly complications, such as heart disease, blindness, kidney disease, and lower-limb amputation. Sadly, more than 284,000 Americans and approximately 12,000 Pennsylvanians die each year from complications like these.

Along with its human toll, diabetes is one of the nation's most costly diseases, estimated at more than $174 billion annually - $116 billion in direct costs for medical expenditures and another $58 billion in indirect costs such as reduced productivity, disease-related disability, and increased absenteeism.

Presenting sponsor Independence Blue Cross
In a demonstration of their commitment to improve the health of the community, hundreds of IBC employees will participate in the walk. As the presenting sponsor, IBC is also urging its customers, members, participating hospitals, physicians, and other local businesses to Step Out by forming a corporate team of their own. The ADA anticipates more than 2,000 walkers will participate in Step Out, and raise funds to support of the association's mission: to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.

"I would like to thank IBC for joining us in our fight against diabetes, one of the most common chronic illnesses in the Philadelphia region," said Russell Moore, ADA executive director of the southeastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey region. "Step Out is wonderful event for friends and coworkers to come together and help raise money for a good cause. Each walker and every dollar raised will bring us one step closer to a cure."

Join Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes
Here's what interested walkers need to know to join Step Out:

Date:	Saturday, October 4, 2008.
Route:	Begins and ends at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Participants will walk through Center City and down the Schuylkill River path, with the option of climbing well-known staircases along the way.
Registration:	Online at www.diabetes.org/stepout. By phone 1-888-DIABETES. Or in person day of event, beginning at 8 a.m.
Walk begins:	At 9:30 a.m.
Activities:	Health festival at Eakins Oval in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art will include free health screenings and health information, entertainment, and refreshments.
Fundraising:	Anyone may walk. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes at the event. Those who raise $150 and above before the walk may pick up their ADA Step Out T-shirts at the event registration table.

October 4 and in the year-round fight against diabetes, the ADA and IBC are here for you every step of the way. Be a part of the cure, and start raising money today by registering for the Step Out walk at www.diabetes.org/stepout or by calling 1-888-DIABETES.

About the American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association is the nation's leading voluntary health organization supporting diabetes research, information, and advocacy. Founded in 1940, the association has offices in every region of the country providing services in more than 800 communities. In addition to the ADA's national Step Out, the American Diabetes Association also funds community-based education programs to improve the quality of life for all people living with diabetes. These programs include the Donovan McNabb Diabetes Summer Camp for Kids in Green Lane, Pennsylvania and the Diabetes Expo, which is held annually, free to the public, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

About Independence Blue Cross
Independence Blue Cross is a leading health insurer in southeastern Pennsylvania. IBC and its affiliates provide coverage to nearly 3.4 million people. For 70 years, Independence Blue Cross has offered high-quality health care coverage tailored to meet the changing needs of members, employers, and health care professionals. Independence Blue Cross is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans.

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Nursing Students 'Graduate' from Independence Blue Cross Internship Program

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EST

Philadelphia, PA - August 12, 2008 - The role of a nurse today is very different than it was ten or even just five years ago. With fewer new nurses entering the field each year, and the growing complexities of health care, nursing students must be ready for a wide variety of responsibilities including caregiver, teacher, investigator, and patient advocate.

To help nursing students prepare for this multifaceted role, Independence Blue Cross (IBC) hosts summer internships through its Nurse Scholars Program. Recently, 19 student nurses from nine local nursing schools completed the eight-week internship now in its fourth year, gaining skills that complement their nursing school education with real-world experience in health insurance and community and public health. The internships also help students discover new facets of nursing outside of a hospital or physician's office, such as case management, and a greater appreciation for their chosen field.

Eleven of the nursing students worked at IBC's headquarters where they received a behind-the-scenes look at managed care. Many had the opportunity to connect with members through case management, and discover the importance of bridging the gap between practicing health care clinically and insurance administration.

The remaining eight nursing students interned at community health clinics supported by IBC's Charitable Medical Care Grant Program, which provides funding for 31 non-profit, privately-funded clinics that care for 91,000 of this region's underinsured or uninsured population.

One nursing student, Rashida Andrews, a senior at Eastern University, worked at Rising Sun Health Center, her neighborhood health clinic. "I was once a patient at a neighborhood clinic, so it was especially meaningful to me to give back to my own community by educating others about being healthy," said Rashida, who was drawn to a career in nursing after caring for her grandfather with emphysema and volunteering at nursing homes when she was 14.

"Maintaining the health and wellness of our community is one of the most important objectives of IBC's social mission," said Stephen Fera, IBC's vice president of Government & Social Mission Programs. "Supporting future nurses through programs like the Nurse Internships is one of the many ways IBC is working to ensure that the people in this region will have access to quality care."

About IBC's Nurse Scholars Program
Created in 2004, The Independence Blue Cross Nurse Scholars Program provides financial assistance to nurse educators and undergraduate nursing students to address critical shortage of nurses and nurse educators. IBC has awarded more than $6.5 million for more than 2,300 undergraduate and graduate scholarships to future practice nurses and nurse educators at 29 accredited area nursing programs in southeastern Pennsylvania. Since 2005, IBC has have provided administrative and clinical opportunities to a total of 67 nursing intern students

Independence Blue Cross Enhances SMART Registry

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

New medication monitoring tool benefits physicians and their patients

Philadelphia, PA - July 31, 2008 - To better support high-quality patient care, Independence Blue Cross (IBC) is providing primary care physicians with enhanced information about IBC members with chronic conditions. This summer, physicians across the region are receiving a SMART^® Registry with several important enhancements. The Registry is a tailored medical report that aids physicians in better treating patients with specific health care needs.

Twice a year, primary care physician practices receive the SMART Registry for many of their patients who suffer from chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart failure, coronary heart disease, asthma, and COPD. The reports include color-coded charts that note whether the member may be in need of a recommended test, procedure, or treatment. Reports also include confirmation that recommended tests have been completed, along with available results.

The SMART Registry, introduced by IBC in 2004 through an alliance with Health Dialog, will now add key new information regarding chronic condition members and will be available in a variety of convenient formats. Now included in the Registry is "medication persistence," a medication monitoring tool to help physicians manage patient care more proficiently. Persistence rates will show how often a patient fills their recommended prescriptions and obtains refills in a timely manner.

"We are very excited about the recent enhancements to the SMART Registry and how they will help doctors better serve their patients," said Dr. Esther Nash, senior medical director at IBC. "We consistently search for ways to make this information useful to physicians. Members with chronic conditions face a continuous challenge when it comes to keeping up with care recommended by their physicians. The Registry is an innovative means for doctors to identify gaps in care and work with their patients to better manage their health."

Also new this year, many doctors are automatically receiving an electronic copy of the registry. The CD version, rather than the previous binder format, allows physicians to sort the data in the way that works best for them, making patient outreach more effective. This version includes a PDF file of the entire SMART Registry as well as all supplemental materials. The binder format is still available upon request.

The SMART Registry is a key component of IBC's Connections^SM Program; which is designed to assist providers and their patients in managing chronic conditions, and to help patients make more informed decisions about their health. The decision support element features Health Coaches, who are available 24/7 to answer questions regarding treatment options, as well as general medical questions.

The SMART Registry is also beneficial for physicians to note their practice's performance levels. Over time, the registries have shown how practices improve in terms of patient results.

These improvements are among the many ways IBC is working to more actively engage members and their treating providers in their health care decisions and their overall treatment plans for chronic conditions. Also this summer, IBC announced the introduction of a member incentive program called Rx for Better Health, which will waive the copays for many prescription drugs that are used to treat certain chronic conditions. The program began July 1 and ends December 31, 2008.

The SMART Registry complies with HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996) regulations that protect the privacy of a patient's personal health information. Such information is shared only with primary care physicians and sent under a secure seal.

About Independence Blue Cross
Independence Blue Cross is a leading health insurer in Southeastern Pennsylvania. IBC and its affiliates provide coverage to nearly 3.4 million people. For 70 years, Independence Blue Cross has offered high-quality health care coverage tailored to meet the changing needs of members, employers, and health care professionals. Independence Blue Cross is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans.

SMART^® is a registered trademark of Health Dialog Services Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bupa, a global provider of healthcare services. The firm's support activities include analytic services, telephonic and online Health Coaching for a broad spectrum of conditions, healthy lifestyle initiatives, and a variety of other support for individuals, payers, and physicians. The goal of the support activities is to help individuals develop more effective relationships with their physicians.

U.S. Department of Justice Clears Highmark and Independence Blue Cross Combination for the 2nd Time

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

Philadelphia, PA - July 17, 2008 - Highmark Inc. and Independence Blue Cross (IBC) announced today that for the second time the U.S. Department of Justice has cleared the proposed combination of the two companies under federal antitrust law.

Dr. Kenneth R. Melani, president and chief executive officer of Highmark, said, "We are pleased that the Justice Department, following an updated and thorough review, has reaffirmed that the consolidation will not adversely affect actual or potential competition in Pennsylvania."

"Today's decision is an important federal milestone in the regulatory review process," said Joseph A. Frick, IBC's president and chief executive officer. "Now we look forward to completing the state regulatory review because we believe strongly that the consolidation will allow us to have a significant, tangible and positive impact on access to quality, affordable health care in Pennsylvania."

Highmark and IBC are continuing to provide detailed information to the Pennsylvania Insurance Department for its careful review of the proposed transaction, including participating this month in a series of public informational hearings held by the Department in Pittsburgh, Harrisburg and Philadelphia.

The Department of Justice first reviewed and cleared the proposed transaction in May 2007. Under federal law, a clearance expires after 12 months. Hence, the companies resubmitted their request for federal clearance this spring.

Highmark Inc. is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans. For more information, visit www.highmark.com.

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Support Voiced from Across Pennsylvania for Proposed Highmark-Independence Blue Cross Combination

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

At hearings, dozens praised the organizations' work to improve health care cost, quality, and access

Philadelphia, PA - July 17, 2008 - The chief executive officers of Highmark Inc. and Independence Blue Cross (IBC), Dr. Kenneth R. Melani and Joseph A. Frick, this week completed a series of public hearings called by Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Joel Ario as part of his department's review of the proposed combination of the two health insurance companies.

The hearings provided an excellent opportunity for Frick and Melani to detail the clear advantages of the consolidation and listen to the views of more than 100 people who spoke at the three hearings in Pittsburgh on July 8, Harrisburg on July 10, and Philadelphia on July 15 and 16. Dozens of presenters spoke in favor of the combination of Highmark and IBC as they praised the organizations' work to improve health care cost, quality, and access, or described the valuable role Highmark or IBC play in their lives. The presenters included members, customers, employee benefits managers, labor unions representatives, physicians, hospital executives, competitors, health care association leaders, public officials, consumer advocates, and leaders of community groups.

"It has been our pleasure to speak in Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, and Philadelphia," said Dr. Melani, president and CEO of Highmark. "We welcomed the opportunity to listen to the thoughtful and often positive comments offered by a wide range of people and organizations whose views are important to us.

"We thank Commissioner Ario for his leadership in guiding us through an open and informative dialogue," Dr. Melani added.

Said IBC President and CEO Frick, "We appreciated the opportunity to highlight the many ways in which our proposed consolidation offers a pathway to the positive change in our health care system that Pennsylvanians are demanding. We are eager for the opportunity to unleash the benefits of the combination - including producing $1 billion dollars in savings and growth for our customers and health care partners, freezing administrative fees for our customers for two years, and providing funds to strengthen our community outreach."

At each hearing, after opening remarks from Commissioner Ario, Melani and Frick spoke, emphasizing that the combination will be good for the people and communities the two companies serve - and will not lessen competition.

Also speaking on behalf of Highmark and IBC were Booz & Co.'s Senior Vice President David Knott, who described the merits of the transaction, and Economists Inc.'s Principal and Board Chair Barry Harris, who reviewed his in-depth analysis that demonstrates why the combination would not lessen competition in Pennsylvania.

At Pittsburgh's July 8 hearing, 26 people spoke. They included the chief financial officer of a local business who described his organization's long-standing relationship with Highmark, his satisfaction with its coverage, and his understanding that the combination will enable Highmark to provide even better service and products. Another speaker was a young woman whose father died of a heart attack in his mid-fifties, and then eight years later her stepfather died from an illness. She said she and her mother turned for help after each loss to Highmark's Caring Place, which counsels grieving children and their families. She said how important the Caring Place was to getting back on her feet and pointed out that a Highmark-IBC combination would provide the resources to expand the program statewide.

Roughly 20 presenters spoke at the July 10 Harrisburg hearing. Two members of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives appeared and supported the combination, describing the positive impact the two insurers have throughout the state. In addition, the deputy superintendent of the Harrisburg School District described the importance of its partnership with Highmark's Health eTools for Schools, a program created by Highmark that funds technology, educational materials, and other tools to help schools fight childhood obesity. IBC introduced Health eTools in the Philadelphia region last fall, and when school resumes this fall, Health eTools will benefit 763,000 students in 1,474 public, parochial, charter, and private schools throughout Pennsylvania.

In Philadelphia, more than 50 individuals discussed their views. While the president and CEO of the Hospital & Healthsystem Association of PA spoke against the combination, it was significant that the CEO of Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the CEOs of three of the region's major health systems (Holy Redeemer, Temple University, and University of Pennsylvania) supported the consolidation. They spoke positively of their long-standing, strong partnerships with IBC that address the critical health care issues of safety and quality. Noting the trend toward consolidation among hospitals to provide economies of scale and improve patient service, they recognized the validity of IBC and Highmark's request to combine to achieve the capabilities and efficiencies provided by larger scale.

Also testifying were three noted physicians representing large, prominent practices or organizations in southeastern Pennsylvania. Explaining why they support the combination, they spoke about the progressive ways their organizations work with IBC to address problems in health care, including innovative wellness and disease management programs to keep patients well and stepped up administrative efficiencies to free physicians to focus on patient care - efforts they envision intensifying and expanding when IBC and Highmark combine.

A number of speakers, including public officials, union leaders, and business representatives, pointed out that the combination would allow the two companies to grow and achieve scale, like businesses everywhere that consolidate and develop new capabilities. Addressing this issue were Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams and Wendell Young 4th, who is president of the 23,000-member United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1776. Williams said it would not be fair to prohibit non-profit IBC and Highmark from combining. He pointed out that achieving scale to realize money-saving economies and fund new, cutting edge capabilities is mandatory for IBC to compete with its well-financed competitors in the southeastern Pennsylvania market: national, for-profit health insurers.

Many presenters praised IBC's dedication to the community and its commitment to covering the uninsured. Some pointed out that only if IBC remains a sound, vibrant company would it be able to continue its strong level of support for the community. One father came straight from work to speak passionately about the comfort he and his wife feel during these tight times having Keystone Health Plan East for his children through IBC and the CHIP program.

Commissioner Ario listened closely to those who endorsed the combination and those who opposed it, and asked many questions about the topics they raised. He stated several times that the PID is still fact gathering and encouraged speakers to send in additional materials to support their views.
"Overall," concluded Frick, "we are pleased with the hearings and with the many positive comments we heard from key stakeholders about the high quality of our organization's products and services, our positive impact on the community, and the benefits of the proposed consolidation. We also heard suggestions for ways we can improve and we will."

The companies continue to provide detailed information to respond to questions from the Insurance Department. The PID plans to close the public-comment period on the combination by the end of August and to reach a decision by December 31.

Highmark Inc. is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans. For more information, visit www.highmark.com.

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IBC and BCBSA Name Area Hospitals as 2008 Blue Distinction Centers for Bariatric Surgery

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

Philadelphia, PA - July 17, 2008 - The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) has designated five area hospitals as Blue Distinction Centers for Bariatric Care for 2008.

Bariatric surgery, or weight-loss surgery, refers to the various surgical procedures that can be performed to treat obesity, which is widely recognized as a contributor to serious health risks. The surgeries involve modifications of stomach, intestines, or both. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), the total number of bariatric surgeries increased 400 percent from 1998 to 2004. Bariatric surgery may help some individuals reduce extreme obesity and its associated health risks, and Blue Distinction^® provides objective information to help them make informed decisions when choosing a provider.

These hospitals provide a full range of bariatric surgery care services, including inpatient care, post-operative care, outpatient follow-up, and patient education. "It is a credit to the high caliber of medical care in our region that Philadelphia is home to five of the 200 facilities recognized as Blue Distinction Centers for Bariatric Surgery across the United States," said Dr. I. Steven Udvarhelyi, Independence Blue Cross chief medical officer. "The Blue Distinction Designation for Bariatric Surgery provides our members the information, clinical resources, and medical expertise they need to help them achieve healthy weight loss and improve their quality of life."

Area hospitals to receive the Blue Distinction Center for Bariatric Surgery designation include:

Abington Memorial Hospital
Albert Einstein Medical Center
Pennsylvania Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania Health System
Temple University Hospital
The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania

These hospitals have met numerous selection criteria thresholds necessary to be named as a Blue Distinction Center for Bariatric Surgery, including:

offering a full-service inpatient hospital facility;
being fully accredited by The Joint Commission or Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program;
performing a required volume of bariatric surgeries during the recent 12-month reporting period;
being staffed by an experienced and appropriately credentialed bariatric surgical team;
being supported by appropriate equipment and staffing;
establishing documented policies and procedures for patient care and follow-up care;
demonstrating a commitment to quality improvement, as shown by its ongoing quality management and improvement programs.

The full list of Blue Distinction selection criteria is available to the public at www.bcbs.com/innovations/bluedistinction/.

Blue Distinction is a designation awarded by Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies to medical facilities that have demonstrated expertise in delivering quality healthcare. The designation is based on rigorous, evidence-based selection criteria established in collaboration with leading clinicians, medical societies and professional organizations. Today, more than 800 Blue Distinction Center designations have been awarded to facilities nationwide, providing consumers with a framework for making informed decisions on where to go for specialty care in the areas of bariatric surgery, cardiac care, complex and rare cancers, and transplants.

Note: Designation as Blue Distinction Centers means these facilities' overall experience and aggregate data met objective criteria established in collaboration with expert clinicians' and leading professional organizations' recommendations. Individual outcomes may vary. To find out which services are covered under your policy at any facilities, please call your local Blue Cross and/or Blue Shield Plan.

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Highmark and IBC CEOs Say Combination Will Provide $1 Billion In New Resources Over 6 Years

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

Will not reduce competition and will help lower costs, increase access, and strengthen PA economy

Pittsburgh, PA - July 8, 2008 - The chief executives of Highmark and Independence Blue Cross (IBC) testified here today at the first Pennsylvania Insurance Department public hearing about the combination of the two companies, saying that it will be good for customers, health care providers, and the communities the two organizations serve - and would not reduce competition.

Kenneth R. Melani, M.D., president and chief executive officer of Highmark, said, in part, "The proposed transaction will not reduce competition or choice in any market in Pennsylvania. Simply put, the two companies and their Pennsylvania insurance subsidiaries do not compete with each other."

"Highmark offers commercial health insurance products in western and central Pennsylvania and IBC serves the five southeastern Pennsylvania counties," Joseph A. Frick, IBC's president and chief executive officer said, in part. "However, in our separate markets, the two companies today compete against a wide range of other health insurers, but not against each other."

Dr. Melani said, "We believe this transaction will allow us to build on our history and lay a foundation for significant, tangible impact in the way health care is delivered and paid for in Pennsylvania."

"We believe this transaction offers a pathway to positive change in our health care system that Pennsylvanians are seeking and demanding," said Mr. Frick. "Like many other businesses, we face strong competition every day. We are trying to develop and grow our workforce. We are trying to meet the changing needs of our customers."

Prior to making their comments, both CEOs thanked the Pennsylvania Insurance Department for holding the hearings, and welcomed the opportunity to discuss the proposed combination in Pittsburgh and over the coming days in Harrisburg and Philadelphia.

In other testimony on behalf of the two companies, it was reported that the $1billion in new resources had been validated through a rigorous analytical process. These resources will be used to help lower health care costs, increase access and strengthen the Pennsylvania economy.

About Highmark Inc.
As one of the leading health insurers in Pennsylvania, Highmark Inc.'s mission is to provide access to affordable, quality health care enabling individuals to live longer, healthier lives. Based in Pittsburgh, Highmark serves 4.6 million people through the company's health care benefits business. Highmark contributes millions of dollars to help keep quality health care programs affordable and to support community-based programs that work to improve people's health. Highmark exerts an enormous economic impact throughout Pennsylvania. A recent study states that Highmark's positive impact exceeded $2.5 billion. The company provides the resources to give its members a greater hand in their health.

Highmark Inc. is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans. For more information, visit www.highmark.com.

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Independence Blue Cross Supports Tour of PA, First Professional Cross-State Bike Race

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

World's best young riders to compete in 420 mile, six-day race from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh

Philadelphia, PA - June 24, 2008 - To highlight its commitment to health and fitness, Independence Blue Cross (IBC) is sponsoring the Tour of PA, a new six-day, 420 mile stage race from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh featuring 120 of the world's best young professional bike racers. Stage one of the Tour begins in Philadelphia today with a 2.5 mile time trial and a 30-mile circuit race that will start and finish at Memorial Hall in Fairmont Park. Grandstands will be set up at Memorial Hall for public race viewing.

The Tour also includes a Finish Line Festival from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Memorial Hall, an event designed to help the community learn ways to adopt active living and healthy eating habits. Admission to the festival is free and will feature a variety of vendors and health-related activities for people of all ages, including a performance by a stunt cyclist, super-charged jump rope demonstration, and several interactive Wii video games. Participants can also enter a free drawing to win a new bicycle.

Neighborhood Bike Works will be on hand to instruct people about the proper fit for a bike helmet and will give away free helmets on a first-come first-serve basis. IBC will provide information about the company's safety program, which includes a $25 reimbursement for the purchase of a new bike helmet, per eligible member per year.

"We're pleased to add the Tour of PA this year to our growing list of activities and events that focus on community health and fitness, such as the Blue Cross Broad Street Run and National Walk @ Lunch Day," says Joseph A. Frick, president and CEO of Independence Blue Cross. "We hope that our members and the community will be inspired by these amazing athletes to think about ways they can improve their own health by becoming active and enjoying the benefits of a fun hobby such as cycling."

"We thank Independence Blue Cross for their support of the Tour of PA," said Dave Chauner, executive director of the race. "We're very excited about the growing interest in professional cycling in our community. This event will be a great opportunity for people to come out and have a good time, and see some talented cyclists who are on their way to becoming cycling's next Olympians and Tour de France competitors."

Race Details
The Tour's route will roughly follow the historic Forbes Road along Route 30 to Pittsburgh through Downingtown, Carlisle, Camp Hill, Bedford, Latrobe, and Ligonier. The race will end with a circuit race through downtown Pittsburgh on June 29.

About the Tour of PA
The Tour of PA is managed by Tour of PA, LLC of Audubon, PA, a partnership between Pro Cycling Tour, LLC and ISM-USA. It is the signature sporting event for Pittsburgh 250, a commission established to celebrate Pittsburgh's 250th anniversary in 2008, and is the world's richest cycling race for elite international cyclists under age 25. The Tour is sanctioned by the International Cycling Union and offers a cash prize list of $150,000.

Independence Blue Cross and Temple University Health System Ink New Multi-Year Contracts

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

Philadelphia, PA - June 20, 2008 - Independence Blue Cross and its affiliates (IBC) and Temple University Health System (TUHS) announced today that they have reached agreement on new multi-year contracts effective July 1, 2008 with an initial term through December 31, 2012.

"We've had a positive, longstanding relationship with Temple University Health System and are pleased to have their continued participation in our provider network," said Joseph A. Frick, IBC's president and CEO. "Teamwork, dedication, and an uncompromising commitment to improve the health of our members and our community are at the core of our progressive multi-year agreements with Temple, including a strong focus on rewarding quality performance through our quality-driven incentive program."

IBC's hospital pay-for-performance program provides TUHS an opportunity to earn additional compensation for delivering increasingly high-quality health care to IBC members. This merit-based compensation approach measures quantitative criteria that improve patient safety performance and quality of care, such as minimizing hospital-acquired infections and reducing surgical complications.

Within the last 18 months, Independence Blue Cross has successfully completed new contract arrangements with nearly 40 hospitals in its network and at least eight large health systems, now including TUHS, ensuring members access to a broad network of high-quality health care services. The new agreements with TUHS will provide IBC members with continued access to covered services provided by:

Temple University Hospital
Jeanes Hospital
Northeastern Hospital
Temple Physicians, Inc. and Senior Health Associates - a network of community-based physician practices
Temple Health System Transport Inc. - the health system's ambulance services affiliate

In addition, members have access to Temple University Physicians because of an earlier agreement IBC reached this year with that group. Temple University Physicians is group of approximately 400 full-time and part-time faculty members of the Temple University School of Medicine, an affiliate of TUHS.

"We are pleased to have reached a fair and reasonable agreement that reflects our ongoing partnership in providing care with a focus on quality and patient safety," said Joseph W. "Chip" Marshall, III, TUHS president and CEO. "We are proud to continue offering IBC members our tradition of excellence in many well-known, high-quality programs and services, such as lung care and pulmonary disorders, cardiac care, digestive disorders, oncology, orthopaedics, transplantation, and neurosciences - which have allowed us to grow as a premier health care institution regionally, and, in some cases, nationally."

About Temple University Health System
Temple University Health System (TUHS) is a major academic health network and Employer of Choice dedicated to providing quality, safe care to the residents of the greater Philadelphia region. Affiliated with Temple University School of Medicine, TUHS consists of four healthcare-provider facilities (including Temple University Hospital, Jeanes Hospital, Northeastern Hospital, and Temple University Hospital - Episcopal campus); Temple Transport Team; and Temple Physicians, Inc., a network of community-based physician practices. With more than 7,500 employees, Temple University Health System is a proud and responsible member of the Philadelphia community. To learn more about TUHS, visit us at www.templehealth.org.

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Independence Blue Cross Waives Copays for Generics Used to Treat Certain Chronic Conditions

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

Rx for Better Health offers members access to 75 generic drugs at no cost for six months

Philadelphia, PA - June 19, 2008 - Independence Blue Cross (IBC) will waive copays and coinsurance on 75 generic drugs that are used to treat common chronic conditions. Rx for Better Health is a member incentive program designed to help our members become more actively involved in their health care. The program will help educate members on the benefits of following prescribed treatment plans for their illnesses, and on the benefits of generic prescription drugs.

Rx for Better Health begins July 1, 2008, and ends December 31, 2008, and waives copays on 75 generic drugs that are commonly used to treat chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, depression, acid reflux, heart failure and heart disease. The program is administered by IBC's pharmacy benefit manager, FutureScripts^®, and a complete list of drugs included in this program is available at www.ibx.com.

Approximately 78 percent of all health care costs in Pennsylvania can be traced to the 20 percent of patients living with chronic disease.¹ However, only 56 percent of these Pennsylvanians receive the care they need.² As a result, hospitals report billions of dollars in charges for hospitalizations that may have been avoided if patients with chronic health conditions had received necessary preventive care. And, Pennsylvanians suffer unnecessarily in many cases that could have been avoided through appropriate use of prescription drugs.

"Our goal is to help members with chronic conditions maintain the best possible health so they can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle and steer clear of visits to the emergency room, and unnecessary hospitalizations," said Joseph A. Frick, president and CEO of IBC. "We want to empower our members to become informed consumers of health care by offering tools and incentives like this program. We're seeing a growing trend that as members get more involved in their health care, they are motivated to maintain their wellness."

"Chronic conditions, left unattended, can lead to poor health and significant costs for everyone - our members, employers, and the community," said I. Steven Udvarhelyi, M.D., Chief Medical Officer for IBC. "Consistent use of prescribed drug therapy plays a significant role in managing chronic conditions. By waiving the copays on many medications used for chronic conditions, we hope to encourage members to take prescribed medications and take a more active role toward maintaining better health," Dr. Udvarhelyi added.

The greater adherence members have in taking their drug therapy, the greater chance complications from chronic conditions can be avoided, resulting in improved quality and cost savings that can have a positive effect on the bottom line of employers. Increased use of generic drugs lowers prescription drug expenses for everyone, so there is a further reduction in the rate of increased medical costs.

"Rx for Better Health builds on the success and popularity of No Pay Copay, the generic education program that waived copays for IBC members on all generic prescriptions throughout 2007," Frick said. "We have been pleased to see that our members' generic utilization increased from approximately 47 percent at the beginning of that program, to 62 percent currently."

John Janthor, an IBC member from Bucks County, has discovered the benefit of staying healthy by using generics. "My doctor switched me from a brand name drug to simvastatin last year during IBC's No Pay Copay program, and I've been pleased to find that my cholesterol level was controlled with equal effectiveness by the generic," Janthor explained. Janthor and his wife Maureen were happy to learn that through Rx for Better Health, they would be able to get simvastatin at no cost through the end of the year. "With two kids to put through college, every little bit of savings helps," Janthor added.

"We understand consumers' growing concern about the rising costs of maintaining their health," said Paul Urick, R.Ph, senior vice president for FutureScripts, the pharmacy benefit manager administering Rx for Better Health. "By helping members see the cost-saving benefits of generics, we are educating them on how to save on their own out-of-pocket costs over the long run, while, even more importantly, staying healthy," he added.

"We encourage individuals who currently take brand name medications to continue as prescribed by their doctor, but in some cases, more cost-effective generic options are available," said Dr. Udvarhelyi. "We suggest that a dialogue between patients and their doctors is the best way to determine if a generic is a suitable fit for a particular condition."

The 75 generic prescription drugs for which IBC will waive copays were chosen because they are used to treat illnesses that significantly affect IBC's population and which proven clinical studies have indicated there is a tremendous opportunity for improved health among patients. The studies used to develop Rx for Better Health show that when prescribed, consistent use of these 75 drugs improves overall health and reduces the risk of more serious, and in some cases life-threatening, complications.

Generics meet the same health and safety standards set by the Food and Drug Administration, but have much lower development and marketing costs than their brand name equivalents, making them more cost-effective options. Even if a member's brand name drug is not currently available in generic form, there may be a generic drug that can effectively treat their condition with different active ingredients. These are known as generic therapeutic alternatives and members need to talk to their doctors about getting a new prescription to make this switch.

IBC offers other services specifically for members with chronic conditions, such as Health Coaches, website tools, and online health assessments. These services can help members make the most of their discussions with their doctors, and maximize the benefits of their health care plans.

No enrollment is necessary to participate in Rx for Better Health. Program applies to in-store pickup at participating FutureScripts pharmacies or mail-order fulfillment. Members with Medicare Part D drug plans, Personal Choice^® HSA-Qualified plans with integrated drug coverage, and Federal Employee Health Benefits Program members are not eligible for the program. Other exclusions may apply.

Independence Blue Cross
Independence Blue Cross is a leading health insurer in Southeastern Pennsylvania. IBC and its affiliates provide coverage to nearly 3.4 million people. For 70 years, Independence Blue Cross has offered high-quality health care coverage tailored to meet the changing needs of members, employers, and health care professionals. Independence Blue Cross is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans.

¹ Presentation of Michael Bailit on the Chronic Care Model, March 22, 2006.
² Dr. Elizabeth A. McGlynn and Dr. Steven M. Asch, et al., The Quality of Health Care Delivered to Adults in the United States, The New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 348.

IBC President and CEO Joseph A. Frick Honored by Red Cross of Southeastern PA as Citizen of the Year

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

Philadelphia, PA - June 12, 2008 - Earlier today, Independence Blue Cross president and chief executive officer Joseph A. Frick was honored as Citizen of the Year by the American Red Cross of Southeastern Pennsylvania (SEPA) Chapter. This is the 26th annual presentation of the award that was created to honor a local citizen for his or her outstanding corporate leadership and commitment to the region's civic and charitable organizations.

"I am honored to receive this prestigious award and to be recognized by an organization that has played such an important role in the wellbeing of our community for decades," said Frick. "It's humbling to be among a group of past winners who are not only prominent business leaders, but also have been good friends and mentors to me for a long time. Independence Blue Cross and the Red Cross have worked closely together over the years and I'm very proud of the partnership we've built." added Frick.

Mr. Frick joined IBC in 1993, and has led Independence Blue Cross since January 2005. He succeeded former IBC president and CEO G. Fred DiBona, a previous Citizen of the Year honoree. Mr. Frick serves as Chair of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the boards of The Philadelphia Orchestra and La Salle University.

"Joe has done a tremendous job strengthening IBC's partnerships with the Red Cross," said Tom Foley, CEO, SEPA chapter of the American Red Cross. "We are extremely pleased to once again honor an Independence Blue Cross leader and a company who care so deeply about their community, and who have done so much to make this a better place for all of us."

Mr. Frick joins a list of past Citizen of the Year honorees that include Governor Edward Rendell; Denis O'Brien, president & CEO of PECO Energy Company; David L. Cohen, executive vice president, Comcast; Joe Banner, president of the Philadelphia Eagles; Anna Cibotti Verna, Philadelphia city council president; and last year, Stephen Steinour, managing partner, CrossHarbor Capital Partners LLC.

Independence Blue Cross Sponsors Free Fitness Series at Penn's Landing

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

IBC Wants Members and the Community to Feel Great This Summer

Philadelphia, PA - June 4, 2008 - To help keep members and the community healthy, Independence Blue Cross (IBC) proudly sponsors the newest free-to-the-public activity at Penn's Landing this summer: the Feel Great Fitness Series. The 13 free fitness sessions in the series are yet another way that IBC demonstrates that it's here for its members and the community every step of the way.

The series begins this Sunday, June 8, and runs until Sunday, August 31 on Walnut Plaza, located at Columbus Boulevard near the Great Plaza at Penn's Landing, rain or shine. The fitness programs kick off with How to Get Started with Fitness on June 8 at 9 a.m. The sessions, which will run about two hours long, are led by professional fitness instructors and require no prior experience, just a willingness to learn and get active. The series will involve a variety of special interest activities including: Intro to Running, Fitness with Disabilities, Tai Chi, Dancing for Health, and Fitness for Seniors.

"The Feel Great Fitness Series is an exciting opportunity for Philadelphia area residents to enjoy being outside along the Delaware River, while engaging in fun, educational, and healthy activities geared for seniors, families, and individuals," said Dr. Esther Nash, senior medical director for population health and wellness at IBC. "We hope the programs will help people start a regular exercise routine. Getting just 30 minutes of physical activity daily has substantial health benefits, such as lowering the risk of developing heart disease, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. It can also improve the health of muscles, bones, and joints."

Obesity is a serious, growing health concern in Pennsylvania for both children and adults, and like many chronic illnesses, can be avoided by Pennsylvanians taking a more active role in their health and committing to regular physical exercise. Programs like the Feel Great Fitness Series are valuable tools to help people learn more about different kinds of exercise while staying on the path to a healthier lifestyle. Here for you every step of the way, IBC reminds members and the community that becoming actively engaged in one's health with fun and diverse programs is a great approach to staying fit and healthy over the long term.

All of the programs offered during the Feel Great Fitness Series promote healthy living and set an important example for the community. There is something for participants of all ages to enjoy as a fun summer outing with family, friends, or as an individual. The schedule for the June events includes:

June 8 - Fitness - How to Get Started
June 15 - Introduction to Running
June 22 - Fitness with Physical Disabilities
June 29 - Engaging Everyone in Family Fitness

The July and August events will be announced on www.pennslandingcorp.com and will include karate, Tai Chi, rock climbing, fitness for seniors, dancing for health, and many other health and fitness programs. Independence Blue Cross recommends consulting with your physician before beginning any exercise program. It is also suggested that participants wear comfortable clothes and shoes appropriate for fitness activities, and bring bottled water.

About Penn's Landing
The Feel Great Fitness Series is part of the entire summer season of free events and activities at Penn's Landing. Penn's Landing Corporation is the non-profit organization responsible for funding and producing public programming at Penn's Landing. All events produced by Penn's Landing Corporation are FREE to the public. For more information on event locations and details, please call (215) 922-2FUN or visit www.pennslandingcorp.com.

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