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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Receives Prestigious Health Equity Accreditation

In a significant milestone for health care quality, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (BCBSMA) has been awarded Health Equity Accreditation from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). This recognition highlights the insurer’s commitment to promoting fairness in health care access and services. As the largest health plan in Massachusetts to achieve this accreditation, BCBSMA is set to pave the way for improving health equity in our communities.

Commitment to Change

Sarah Iselin, President and CEO of BCBSMA, expressed her pride in this achievement, stating, "This accreditation is a testament to our team's long-standing efforts to show up for our members and work collaboratively with our partners to eliminate inequities in care." She acknowledged that while achieving immediate change in health equity is challenging, BCBSMA is committed to driving significant, measurable results toward a fairer health care system.

This accreditation comes after an extensive evaluation process that spanned eight months. The NCQA is recognized as the gold standard in assessing health care quality nationwide. Their certification process scrutinizes organizations against strict standards in various domains, including:

1. Organizational Readiness: The commitment of the organization to improve health equity.
2. Diversity Metrics: How effectively an organization addresses diverse backgrounds, encompassing race, ethnicity, language, gender identity, and sexual orientation.
3. Language Services: Access to interpretation and translation services for members who require them.
4. Cultural Responsiveness: The ability of the practitioner network to meet the cultural needs of patients.
5. Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS): The provision of services that are respectful of and responsive to the cultural and language needs of diverse populations.
6. Health Disparities Reduction: Active efforts to identify and reduce disparities in health care outcomes.

A Leader in Addressing Health Inequities

BCBSMA has a long-standing reputation as a pioneer in addressing health care inequities. Notable initiatives include:

• - Economic Incentives: BCBSMA introduced a pay-for-equity financial payment model, establishing a groundbreaking approach to tackle disparities in health care access and quality.
• - Data Collection: They were among the first in the industry to collect and analyze data on health inequities, leading to their fifth annual health equity report, which offers valuable insights into the ongoing challenges and advancements in this area.
• - Funding for Improvement: In 2022, BCBSMA provided $25 million in grants through the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. This funding was aimed at bolstering physician practices and hospitals within its network, enabling them to find and implement solutions for inequities in care.

About BCBSMA

Founded in Boston, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts is a not-for-profit health plan that prides itself on its community-centric approach and commitment to accessible healthcare. The organization strives to treat every member like they are unique and deserving of excellent care, emphasizing affordability, equity, and seamless access to health services. In recognition of these efforts, BCBSMA continues to be rated among the leading health plans nationally for member satisfaction and care quality.

About NCQA

The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) is a private, not-for-profit organization dedicated to enhancing health care quality. With a strong reputation for accrediting various health care organizations, NCQA also recognizes clinicians and practices excelling in specific performance areas. Their Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS®) remains the most utilized performance measurement tool within the industry, aiding consumers and employers in making informed health care decisions.

As BCBSMA moves forward with its health equity initiatives, the recent accreditation is not just a badge of honor, but a call to action for all stakeholders in healthcare. By addressing inequities head-on, BCBSMA exemplifies leadership in a crucial area of society and aims to inspire similar commitments across the country.