News, Analysis, Trends, Management Innovations for
Clinical Laboratories and Pathology Groups
Hosted by Robert Michel

News, Analysis, Trends, Management Innovations for
Clinical Laboratories and Pathology Groups
Hosted by Robert Michel
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In the New Health Engagement Model of Health Benefits, Clinical Pathology Laboratories Can Help Beneficiaries through Timely Medical Lab Testing

Dec 9, 2011 | Laboratory News, Laboratory Pathology

Oregon adopts health engagement model for its state employees, as evidence of cost savings grows

Across the nation, pathologists and clinical laboratory managers will want to learn about a new model of healthcare reform. It is the “health engagement model” (HEM) and it is being rolled out by a number of health insurers.

Variations of the HEM model are gaining ground in states around the country because health insurers see HEMs as a way to reduce costs and improve quality of healthcare. One new HEM is taking root in the Pacific Northwest. The Oregon Public Employees’ Benefit Board (PEBB) recently adopted a new HEM for state employees, according to a story published by the Lund Report.

What may cause some medical laboratory managers to sit up and take notice is the fact that PEBB’s HEM is producing impressive participation numbers. “Thus far, 48% of members have enrolled for health plans,” stated Ingrid Norberg, Communications Coordinator at PEBB. “And 87% of participating members chose to participate in the health engagement model.”
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Behavioral Economics Likely to Push Up Utilization of Clinical Pathology Laboratory Tests

Jan 28, 2011 | Laboratory News, Laboratory Pathology

Wellness Programs Require Appropriate and Timely Use of Medical Laboratory Tests

Pathologists and clinical laboratory managers know that smoking, obesity and unnecessary utilization are major factors in the skyrocketing cost of healthcare. These are primary reasons behind the desired transition from reactive and acute care to a health system organized to deliver proactive care.

Consumer cooperation will be essential for this transition to succeed. Each year, the number of employer-funded or insurer-funded health and wellness programs increases. That trend is consistent with the federal government’s interest in promoting its own health and wellness programs as one way to lower the total cost of healthcare.
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