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Hospital and Physician Update
September – October 2017
Top story
A message from Dr. S. George Kipa
We’re making progress on reducing use of antibiotics
A new study by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association showed that the rate at which antibiotic prescriptions were filled dropped 9 percent from 2010 through 2016. Read more.
Networks and plans

We’re inviting you to join new network
Blue Cross partnering with TriWest to serve veteran’s health care needs in Michigan
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and TriWest Healthcare Alliance are joining forces to serve our nation’s veterans. Read more.

Digital tools help members navigate their plans
Over the years, doctors have urged us to do a better job of educating members about their Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network plans. When a doctor or staff member has to explain to a patient the details of the patient’s health care plan, it takes time away from the doctor’s or staff member’s core business: treating patients. Read more.
Value Partnerships

Embedded care managers in primary care offices gaining increased acceptance, study shows
Increasingly, care management is being incorporated into team-based models of primary care, such as patient-centered medical homes. Research studies examining this approach have shown varying degrees of acceptance by physicians and staff. Read more.
Mind-body connection
Tools you can use: Here are ways to communicate about behavioral health
It can be uncomfortable for patients when they’re referred to a behavioral health provider for the first time. To address that issue, Molly Kriesel, a licensed, master’s level social worker from Bear Creek Clinic in Muskegon, has helped develop some tools to make patients feel comfortable about receiving services. Read more.
In brief
In brief
Our “in brief” features this month includes details on the inaugural CQI summit that will be held in October and breast cancer screening measures. Read more.
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