Commissioner Jones also relayed the activity of his first 70 days in office, particularly establishing a relationship with the health plans. Jackson Booth, an insurance broker for JRB Insurance Services, discussed how ASCs can improve relationships between ASCs and insurance brokers, saying there is a tremendous opportunity for ASCs to build relationships with employer groups seeking economical plans for their staff. Mr. Booth discussed how ASCs can educate brokers on why ASCs are a cost-effective, high-quality care setting.
An overriding theme of the Health Plan Summit was the health plans’ focus on monitoring or eliminating out-of-network benefits or “non-par” payments. This focus led to further discussion on how the industry can break down barriers to contracting and assist both sides of the industry in developing mutually perceived reasonable payments.
“The CASA Board and I are very pleased with the outcome of the Summit,” said CASA President Shannon Blakeley. “Our board will move forward working with CMS Region 9 on the implementation of ACOs and healthcare innovation, establishing relationships with California physician groups and insurance brokers and continue the ongoing dialogue with the health plans on contracting barriers and the benefits of ASCs to the success of health care reform.”
Read more about CASA and the fifth Annual Corporate and Health Plan Summit.
Read more about state ASC issues:
-States Propose Measures to Alter, Remove CON Processes
–Legislation Introduced in New Jersey Concerning Licensure of Surgical Practices
