• E-mail
• Print
• Comment
• Font Size
• Digg
• del.icio.us
• Discuss article

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Missouri Introduces Industry's First Electronic Tool to Help Members Search In-Network Doctors and Hospitals

Posted on: Monday, 9 February 2009, 10:00 CST

Transparency Tool Enables Searches of Comprehensive Provider Directory via Web-Enabled Cell Phones or Hand-Held Devices

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 9, 2009 /PRNewswire/ -- Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Missouri today announced the launch of the industry-leading Anthem Mobile Provider Finder, a new online directory tool that will allow members to search for local, in-network doctors and hospitals through any Web-enabled cell phone or hand-held device.

"Our members are increasingly more engaged in the decisions that affect their health and health care options," said Wayne Meyer, M.D., medical director, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Missouri. "This innovation enhances transparency by providing yet another way for consumers to access information about the person who often plays the most important role in their care - their doctor."

"Whether you need to quickly locate a general practitioner or immediately understand your options when your family doctor recommends a specialist, this tool will give consumers access to the information they need to make educated decisions," added Dr. Meyer.

Members can visit www.anthem.com/mobile from any Web-enabled device to identify and browse in-network providers by address, city, state, zip code or name. Members can further target physician specialties, languages spoken and gender. The tool also includes physicians' phone numbers and addresses, including step-by-step driving directions specifically designed for small screens.

"Anthem is committed to providing innovative technology solutions to our members that help improve their health care experiences," said Dennis Matheis, president, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Missouri. "Cell phones, PDAs, and similar hand-held devices have quickly become a vital part of how we communicate and connect in today's world."

According to a study done by Pew Internet and American Life Project, 38 percent of Internet users in the United States have a Web-enabled wireless phone or hand-held device. Of these, 7 percent regularly use these devices to search for people, contact information or directions.

About Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Missouri

In Missouri (excluding 30 counties in the Kansas City area) Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name for RightCHOICE(R) Managed Care, Inc. (RIT), Healthy Alliance(R) Life Insurance Company (HALIC), and HMO Missouri, Inc. RIT and certain affiliates administer non-HMO benefits underwritten by HALIC and HMO benefits underwritten by HMO Missouri, Inc. RIT and certain affiliates only provide administrative services for self-funded plans and do not underwrite benefits. Independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. (R)ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Additional information about Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Missouri is available at www.anthem.com.

SOURCE Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Missouri

Source: PR Newswire

More News in this Category