Pittsburgh-based insurer Highmark Health is piloting a program aimed at steering members to network providers with the highest quality and lowest cost, according to a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette report.
As part of the pilot, Lyndhurst, N.J.-based Vitals SmartShopper will offer the buying guide for the Highmark Health's self-insured groups, according to the article.
Ultimately, employers will be able use claims data to customize high-quality, affordable service offerings for their employees. When employees need a service such as imaging or diagnostic testing, they can then interact online with SmartShopper to review location and cost reports, according The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. According to the report, employer groups purchase the service on a per-member, monthly basis or as a percentage of their savings.
"Highmark is always looking for new and innovative ways to support a market competitive consumer experience," the company said in a statement. "In the changing healthcare landscape it is important we offer consumers tools that will aid and incent them to utilize high-quality, lower-cost healthcare."
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