Under the program, a member is referred by their physician for a medical service or diagnostic exam. The member then contacts Compass Health Care Advisors, a local company, which provides cost and incentive information for area healthcare providers, according to the release. If a member chooses to receive care from a more cost-effective provider for his or her healthcare service, they qualify for financial incentives ranging from $50-$100. The City of Manchester avoids higher claims costs and provides a financial reward through the incentive payment for the employee making an informed health care decision.
“We strongly feel that this program represents a key potential step in helping to control the city’s health care costs,” Manchester Mayor Ted Gatsas said in the release. “I am proud to say that we have already seen employees step up and take advantage of this service. It is a great way for our employees to get engaged and help protect the excellent health benefits they have.”
The program targets high volume elective procedures and tests including carpal tunnel surgery, colonoscopy, CT scans, ENT surgery, hernia repair, knee arthroscopy, mammograms, MRI, shoulder arthroscopy, sinus surgery and upper GI diagnostic exams, according to the release. Additional services will be added over time.
Mayor Gatsas noted in the release that as Manchester’s insurance plan is self-funded, the city realizes immediate savings when employees utilize lower cost providers.
Read the release about the Manchester-Anthem pilot program for lower healthcare costs.
