“These conversations matter. We heard from our customers and the Let’s Talk Cost community that they want to know up front how much a procedure or office visit costs, and now that information is available.” added Wilson. “We know there is more work to do, and it begins with the kind of conversation and collaboration we see on Let’s Talk Cost.”

“Consumers wouldn’t go for an oil change or buy a dishwasher without knowing how much it costs. Why should health care be any different?” said Susan Menendez, director of Strategic Provider Relationships at BCBSNC. “The data we’ve made available on mybcbsnc.com will help clear up confusion and empower our customers to make better informed decisions.”

“We recognize that every day in towns and cities across the state, North Carolinians are rolling up their sleeves and making a difference in their communities and the state as a whole,” says Kathy Higgins, president of the BCBSNC Foundation. “We are in awe of the feats many of these organizations have accomplished – they’re committed to a bigger solution and are working tirelessly to succeed. They’ve inspired those closest to them, they’ve inspired us, and now we hope they will inspire others across our state.”

“Topaz is evidence of how serious we are about continuing to compete and win in North Carolina’s rapidly evolving health insurance marketplace,” said BCBSNC President and CEO Brad Wilson. “Topaz will accelerate our transformation as a company, bring new capabilities to our customers and fuel our efforts to be a more efficient company.”

“We believe that the efficiencies gained at Carolina Advanced Health can help our employees who are living with chronic conditions better manage their health, as well as reduce complications, avoidable ER visits and unnecessary duplication,” said State Health Plan Interim Executive Administrator Lacey Barnes.

“I knew when the work was completed that it was something special and knew it had the potential to win awards,” said Bridgette Sullivan, BCBSNC director of creative services. “Hanson Dodge Creative did a fantastic job. I’m thrilled with the work they have done for us.”

“This change is part of our effort to find ways to reduce costs while maintaining high levels of quality and service,” said BCBSNC Senior Vice President and CIO Alan Hughes. “Our employees provide these services very well – and at remarkable levels of reliability – but this new agreement will provide greater flexibility and cost-effectiveness. As we considered options for transitioning these functions, Fujitsu America’s strong and comprehensive commitment to our people, business needs and technology set them apart.”

“Carolina Advanced Health is an example of how two groups can work together to find ways to rein in medical costs by ensuring that patients receive quality, coordinated care,” said BCBSNC President and CEO Brad Wilson. “Through a comprehensive approach towards wellness, prevention and chronic disease management, we are building the foundation for a better health care system in North Carolina.”

“This partnership is another step forward in our efforts to reduce pharmacy costs while providing customers with more flexibility in services and programs,” said BCBSNC President and CEO Brad Wilson. “We are eager to work with other non-profit Blues to improve formulary designs, customer communications, and programs that integrate pharmacy and health management programs.”

“BCBSNC’s support begins the private-public partnership to transform perinatal health care delivery in North Carolina,” said Dr. Martin McCaffrey, PQCNC director. “Through this partnership, BCBSNC is supporting a unique approach to perinatal care that will benefit not only BCBSNC mothers and infants, but mothers, babies and families across the state.”