Regence BlueShield

It’s no secret that health care costs are on the rise. According to a recent report, Washington workers and businesses have experienced double digit increases over the past decade – with the average premium for a single worker rising by *49 percent*. On the newest episode of the HealthChangers podcast, Bill Kramer, senior advisor for health policy at the Purchaser Business Group on Health (PBGH), explores how large employers are trying to get their hands around the rising cost of care, and work with payers, providers and elected officials to find much needed solutions. Listen now: https://lnkd.in/gFMhhh-w

As the year winds down, it's a good time to reflect on your health and wellness goals. Our Executive Medical Director Dr. Saint Clair shares tips on how to prioritize your health and set yourself up for success in the year ahead.

Nicole Saint Clair, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Clair of Regence BlueShield tells KIRO 7 that having more diversity among health care researchers and practitioners can lead to more effective data and treatment.

In 2025, Medicare will cap out-of-pocket Part D drug costs at $2,000, a change made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act. But that's not all—this change may also impact Medicare Advantage plans' other costs and coverage. Watch our latest video with Assistant Director of Medicare Sales Michael Reeves to learn more about what's changing and how we're working to maintain the benefits members use the most.

On the newest episode of the Seattle Sounders FC Pod-Cast, our very own Manuel Morales, who was recognized as a Community Hero earlier this month for his work as the Co-Chair of our Home of Latinxs and Allies ERG, joins midfielder Cristian Roldan and hosts Brad Evans and Steve Zakuani to discuss the experiences and perspectives that come with being first-generation American. Listen now ??

More young people are being diagnosed with breast cancer, said Nicole Saint Clair, M.D., F.A.C.O.G., executive medical director for Regence BlueShield. She tells KIRO 7 that new guidelines say women should get a mammogram at age 40, or even earlier if they have unique risk factors.

"I've dealt with an enlarged prostate, which led to a painful biopsy and two transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) procedures. But the results have been life-changing — no more sleepless nights, urgent bathroom trips or discomfort on long trips. My experience has taught me the importance of prioritizing prostate health. I've encouraged other men to take control of their health, even if it means facing uncomfortable procedures. Don't let fear or squeamishness hold you back. The benefits of treatment far outweigh the temporary discomfort.” –Carl Smith, Assistant Director, Actuarial #Movember is all about helping to transform how men think about their health. Whether it’s getting that check-up or reaching out for mental health support, every action counts. Join us this month by sharing your story and helping spark a conversation about these critical topics. ?? #RegenceDoesMovember

Did you know that you can receive urgent care right in the comfort of your own home? Until I started at Regence BlueShield, I didn't realize that in-home care (think of it like modern house calls from doctors) is not just alive and well but thriving. Thank you to Dr. Stefen Ammon and Lara Magnani for sitting down with me on the Regence HealthChangers podcast to talk about the innovative in-home model from DispatchHealth and the partnership between DispatchHealth and Regence to make care more affordable and accessible for our members.

Treating patients in their home is more affordable and effective and allows providers to assess a patient’s social determinants of health with insight that wouldn’t be possible in a hospital setting, said Dr. Stefen Ammon of DispatchHealth. Learn more on the new episode of the Regence HealthChangers podcast, along with Lara Magnani of Regence, talking about the unique DispatchHealth in-home care model and how the DispatchHealth-Regence partnership is helping Regence members: https://lnkd.in/gTsmdaJY

Did you know that demographics and social factors can influence up to 80% of your health? At Regence, we're using data to better understand how these factors impact outcomes and develop targeted programs that promote health equity. Our Care Management team is dedicated to helping members navigate the health care system and advocate for the care they need. Read our latest blog to learn more about how we're using data to improve health and hear from one of our case managers, Shaleena Bilbrey, RN, about the impact of data-driven care: https://lnkd.in/gRkaRmeW #HealthEquity #SDOH #DataDriven #CareManagement