xne system nas snarpiy reaucea paper worn, aoministrative costs

xne system nas snarpiy reaucea paper worn, aoministrative costs and has speeded claim payments. In addition, the computers are set up to review all claims to make sure they are reasonable and proper. 7. Out-of-Hospital Care—We are designing benefits to include the use of extended care facilities, nursing homes and convalescent centers, where the cost is generally about half that of regular hospitals. These benefits are also planned to cover diagnostic tests, minor surgery, X-ray exams, and other out-of-hospital services. This program reduces the demand for hospital beds and will result in significant savings for everyone. 8. Greatest Protection at Lowest Cost—Except for the small cost of administering the program, every dollar of income to Blue Cross and Blue ShiaHT-coes to pay hospital and medical bills. This is why BtaewCross and Blue Shield are able to provide members with the greatest possible protection at the lowest cost. Because of all the emphasis on cost control, physicians' charges in Virginia have actually risen less than the Cost of Living Index. But in spite of everyone’s efforts, health care costs still continue to climb. Part of this is due to increased construction costs, increased labor costs and higher costs of drugs and materials. Today’s unprecedented demand for hospital and medical care is also contributing to the increase. But we should remember, too, that a good part of the increase is simply because our hospitals are doing a better job now of restoring our health and prolonging our lives. Their long years of research, their new skills and their remarkable new equipment are paying off for us. After all. isn't this what we wanted? We’re witnessing, and we re really part of, the most dramatic and most successful era of health care the world has ever known. It’s an exciting time to be alive. Many of us wouldn’t be, were it not for these remarkable medical advances. Ask someone with a transplanted kidney or a repaired heart, "Is it worth it?” We pledge to do all we can to keep health care costs from rising any higher. We will examine every suggestion, and we will initiate any project that promises to reduce rates for you, our subscribers. But we also pledge, just as firmly, to provide complete pro tection so that you and the members of your family will get all the care and treatment you need wherever and whenever the need arises That’s what Blue Cross and Blue Shield are all about and it’s why we say Blue Cross and Blue Shield are with you all the way. . ,,