Managed Care Providers Organize Lobby

Most of the companies that provide health care to Idaho residents have formed a new association with the announced goal of accountability for the quality of health care services and satisfaction of patients.

The Idaho Association of Health Plans held a news conference at the Statehouse Thursday. New president John Stellmon of Lewiston says the association seeks some unity in providing managed health care plans. Stellmon is executive vice president and chief operating officer of Regence Blue Shield of Idaho.

“As a vital component of the health care system, we will work with legislators and regulators to further the availability of quality, cost effective health care in Idaho,” Stellmon said.

To promote consistency, Stellmon said the new association has created a set of operating principles for Idaho health care products and services. The association will provide information to and lobby the Idaho Legislature on its issues.

Three of the seven companies in the new association are headquartered in the state of Washington. Stellmon said Blue Cross of Idaho is the only major managed health care provider not in the association.