Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s reaction to national health care reform

National health care reform is law that will likely change how health care is financed, delivered and regulated for years to come. Michigan Blue Cross’ executive leaders have been answering questions from news media about its positive effects , impact on us and our members, and our reaction to what is going on. We’re ready to adapt to these regulatory changes, but also realize that more reform will be necessary to control the escalating cost of health care.

Despite being lumped with other insurers, Michigan Blues are models of health care reform.

The Obama administration recently criticized health insurers, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, for raising rates. That criticism overlooks a huge, key factor: We’re already well aligned with where the president wants to go with health care reform. As a guest columnist in today’s Detroit News, CEO and President Dan Loepp explains how the Blues are swimming upstream in Michigan’s out-of-balance health care market.

New Blues savings program targets personal health.

A new program from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan rewards your pocketbook when you make healthy purchases. The Healthy Blue Xtras is a savings program that offers members discounts and special offers with Michigan-based companies like Weight Watchers, Moosejaw and Shanty Creek Resorts. Both AnnArbor.com and The Detroit News profiled the initiative in recent stories.