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Achieving Milestones in Healthcare: A Closer Look at IHNSA and Banner Health

In a remarkable feat, the Integral Health Network of Southern Arizona (IHNSA) and Banner – University Family Care have reported a significant reduction of 12.1% in their Medical Loss Ratio (MLR) for the year 2023. This achievement is not merely a statistic; it reflects the dedication and collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing health outcomes while diminishing costs for some of Arizona's most underserved populations.

Partnership for Improved Care

The partnership between IHNSA, managed by Alera Health, and Banner – University Family Care is a testament to what can be accomplished when healthcare entities unite towards a common goal. In 2023, IHNSA distinguished itself as one of the top-performing Clinically Integrated Networks (CINs) in Arizona. The effort to enhance both care quality and MLR reduction was driven by innovative outreach strategies that made healthcare more accessible to those often overlooked.

Dr. Sandra Stein, the Chief Medical Officer at Banner – University Family Care, emphasized that the success in reducing MLR was facilitated through a concentrated effort focusing on timely access to care and engaging the members. "We aimed to ensure that every member had access to effective healthcare solutions," she stated.

Addressing Unique Challenges

The populations served by IHNSA face complex health issues, which often make them disengaged from outpatient care. John Hogeboom, CEO of Community Bridges, Inc. and an IHNSA board member, explained the challenges of addressing complex medical and behavioral health needs within these communities. The integrated care system they have developed allows for collaboration among various agencies, hospitals, primary care providers, and health plans to share essential data to create better healthcare pathways for patients.

Future Plans and Expanding Reach

Looking ahead, IHNSA and Banner – University Family Care are eager to expand their impact. Plans are underway to increase the number of individuals served by IHNSA, as well as align Banner Health's hospital resources with primary care services. The goal is to swiftly identify and coordinate care, ensuring timely interventions for those in need.

Mike Rhoades, the CEO of Alera Health, remarked, "These outstanding results exemplify the potential of integrated care models, which are further incentivized under value-based contracts. We are proud to support the population health management initiatives of IHNSA and Banner Health."

About the Organizations

IHNSA is committed to delivering comprehensive, high-quality integrated care, especially for members experiencing behavioral health challenges. Through proactive engagements, they continue to close gaps in healthcare delivery by forging strong collaborations with community partners and providers.

Banner – University Family Care has been a pioneering force in Arizona's healthcare landscape since its inception in 1985 as a Medicaid contractor. With a diverse portfolio in Medicaid and Medicare services, it currently supports nearly 300,000 individuals, focusing on vulnerable populations and leading the way in integrated health solutions.

Alera Health stands at the forefront of innovative population health management. With a mission to connect healthcare payers and providers, they enhance the efficiency and efficacy of care systems. Their ONEcare networks prioritize delivering whole-person care that addresses the full spectrum of health needs, working tirelessly to reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and improve the overall health landscape.

In summary, the collaboration between IHNSA and Banner Health represents a step toward a future where healthcare systems work not just to treat illness but to cultivate wellness across the board. The results achieved thus far signal a positive trajectory for integrated healthcare delivery in Arizona and beyond.