Escalating consumer interest in alternative medicine prompted Independence Blue Cross to offer its 2.6 million members access to a national network of credentialed
complementary health providers earlier this month. The Philadelphia health plan signed a contract with American Specialty Health Networks, a national provider of chiropractic,
acupuncture, massage therapy and online wellness services.
Alternative practitioners in nine Pennsylvania counties will offer IBC members a 30% discount. Nationally, discounts of up to 25% will be available.
In addition to having access to alternative health practitioners, health plan members will also be offered the lowest membership rates at ASPN's national network of health and
fitness clubs.
The program will be promoted online on IBC's Web site (http://www.ibx.com) through:
- health and wellness information on more than 1,200 products;
- a practitioner directory; and
- updated educational information on complementary healthcare treatments and services.
(IBC, Chris Rathke, 215/241-3110; ASHN, 619/686-5990)