CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – The American Cancer Society, in 2012, estimated 51,860 new cancer cases for North Carolina. In an effort to ensure that all oncology patients throughout the state benefit from treatments that follow the latest evidence-based research in their community, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC) has launched the Blue Quality Physician ProgramSM for Oncology in Wilmington.
 
BCBSNC’s Blue Quality Physician Programfor Oncology program is designed to promote excellence in cancer care by helping oncology practices create a culture of practitioners working together, consulting and providing solutions for the best treatment outcomes. The program provides residents of Wilmington access to quality oncology care similar to major medical universities and health care systems with the convenience to patients of staying in the greater Wilmington area.  The quality measures have been selected by practicing oncologists integrating standards in four categories:
 
  • Quality of care – implementing eviti®, an evidence-based,  cancer care planning resource
  • Patience experience – practitioners attend cultural competency course and conduct patient satisfaction surveys
  • Administrative efficiency –­ utilize electronic claims submission and patient care summaries
  • Cost efficiency – minimize medically unnecessary tests and treatments 
“This is a heartening example of the medical community and an insurance company working collaboratively so that patients benefit from the best possible treatment plans for cancer care,” said Don Bradley, M.D., senior vice president and chief medical officer for BCBSNC.  “Plans like these can minimize testing and treatments that lack proven medical benefit, improve patients’ experience with the health care system, and in turn reduce medical costs for patients.”
 
BCBSNC launched Blue Quality Physician Programfor Oncology in 2011, following the success of the Blue Quality Physician Programfor Primary Care. The goals of this program are to improve the quality of care delivered to oncology patients, while decreasing the overall spending related to cancer care in community-based oncology practices.
 
In 2012, BCBSNC and Wilmington Health established a physician-led Accountable Care Organization (ACO). Continuing its relationship with BCBSNC to improve health outcomes, Wilmington Health’s participation in Blue Quality Physician Programfor Oncology continues its dedication to achieving this goal.
 
 “Wilmington Health is proud to be selected as a pioneer participant in the Blue Quality Physician Program for Oncology. The strong relationship established between our two organizations is dedicated to improving the health care delivered to the communities we serve,” said Jeff James, CEO, Wilmington Health. “Our entire Oncology team looks forward to collaborating with national leaders in Oncology and implementing scientifically proven best practices to improve our patient’s health and satisfaction with the care they receive.”  
 
BCBSNC will continue to evaluate collaboration opportunities across North Carolina to enhance the care and improve the health of oncology patients.  For more information, practices may contact Susan Menendez, director of strategic provider relationships for BCBSNC at (919) 765-4035. 
 
About BCBSNC:
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina is a leader in delivering innovative health care products, services and information to more than 3.74 million members, including approximately 1 million served on behalf of other Blue Plans. For generations, the company has served its customers by offering health insurance at a competitive price and has served the people of North Carolina through support of community organizations, programs and events that promote good health. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina was recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere Institute in 2012 and 2013. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Visit BCBSNC online at bcbsnc.com. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
 
About Wilmington Health:
Wilmington Health has provided premier health care to the residents of Southeastern North Carolina for nearly 40 years. It is the largest fully integrated, multi-specialty medical group practice in the area. Wilmington Health has 19 locations, including Convenient Care and Urgent Care. For more information about Wilmington Health, please call 910.815.6153, or visit www.wilmingtonhealth.com.