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Press Release

Independence Blue Cross Earns Full Re-Accreditation From URAC

Health Utilization Management and Case Management Meet Quality Standards

Philadelphia, PA - September 23, 2008 - Independence Blue Cross (IBC) announced that Independence Health Care Management, a wholly owned IBC subsidiary, has been awarded full accreditation in Health Utilization Management and Case Management from URAC, a Washington, DC-based health care accrediting organization that establishes quality standards for the health care industry.

“URAC emphasizes adherence to fair and equitable clinical practices,” said Dr. Richard Snyder, senior vice president of Health Services at IBC. “With the extension of our URAC Accreditation in these areas of Health Utilization Management and Case Management, IBC is able to assure members that there is a continuous concern for providing quality care.”

This accreditation means that IBC has met URAC’s strict standards regarding Health Utilization Management for 15 consecutive years. URAC reviews Health Utilization Management standards, along with clinical staff qualifications, to ensure the services provided and the policies implemented are clinically sound, and patients’ rights are being protected.

URAC’s review of an organization’s Case Management staff and services is another way to determine whether quality care is being offered to patients. In addition to Health Utilization Management, IBC has been accredited in Case Management since 2004. Case manager training, delegation of responsibilities, maintained confidentiality, and efficient, professional case management are all evaluated areas.

“Independence Blue Cross should be commended for meeting strict quality standards,” said Alan P. Spielman, URAC president and CEO. “It is critically important for health care organizations to make a commitment to quality and accountability. URAC accreditation is a demonstration of that commitment.”

About URAC
URAC, an independent, nonprofit organization, is a leader in promoting health care quality through accreditation and certification programs. URAC’s standards keep pace with the rapid changes in the health care system, and provide a mark of distinction for health care organizations to demonstrate their commitment to quality and accountability. Through its broad-based governance structure and an inclusive standards development process, URAC ensures that all stakeholders are represented in setting meaningful standards for the health care industry. For more information, visit www.urac.org.

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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