IBC medical home studies show significant costs savings for chronically ill people

Independence Blue Cross (IBC) announces the results of a series of three-year studies that demonstrate significant reductions in medical costs for patients with chronic conditions treated in primary care practices that have transformed into medical homes. Most notably, diabetic members treated in a medical home practice had 21 percent lower total medical costs, driven by a 44-percent reduction in hospital costs. Lower emergency room costs were seen after one year.

IBC also found reductions in costs for members with chronic conditions such as coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and hypertension.

“Quality and value in health care begin with strong primary care,” said Daniel J. Hilferty, IBC president and CEO. “In the complex world of health care, one way we’re changing the game is through our support of medical home practices that provide more coordinated, personalized care and give patients the tools and resources they need to take better care of themselves. In this period of unprecedented change in health care, the health care companies that thrive will be those with a bold, clear vision that move rapidly, execute fresh ideas and develop groundbreaking innovations.”