Blue Cross works with hospitals, doctors to launch Metro Detroit EPO
As part of our mission to increase access to health care for Michigan residents, we’re launching a new local network. Read more.

Blues launch quality initiative to improve care for patients undergoing anesthesia
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network recently launched their 15th hospital-based quality collaborative, and it’s focused on anesthesiology. Read more.

Two Blue Cross quality initiatives recognized nationally for innovation in patient care
Two of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s partnerships with the University of Michigan Health System and physicians statewide have recently been recognized for the innovative ways they’re working to improve patient care. Read more.

A message from Dr. Amy McKenzie
Combating antibiotic resistance a top concern for prescribers
In late September of this year, the Obama administration unveiled a new strategy to tackle the ever-increasing threat of antibiotic resistance. With increased numbers of drug-resistant microbes, the concern of the current administration is certainly warranted. Read more.

Clinical quality corner
Tip sheets offer key information on treating patients with acute bronchitis, pharyngitis and upper respiratory infections
This is part of a yearlong series of columns and accompanying tip sheets that focus on specific Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set measures. This month we’re focusing on HEDIS^® measures related to the treatment of acute bronchitis in adults, as well as children with pharyngitis and upper respiratory infections.
Read more.

In Brief
Find out more about fee uplifts for specialists
In the September – October 2014 issue of Hospital and Physician Update, we let you know that a dozen new physician specialty types will be eligible for fee uplifts through the Physician Group Incentive Program in 2015. We now have more details on the fee uplifts and you can read all about them in an article in the November Record.
Read more.