The coronavirus (COVID-19) has dominated the news since the outbreak began in China early this year. As the situation evolves, health care companies and organizations should monitor four important risk areas: supply chain, patient demand, workforce supply and Treasury. … READ MORE >
Rick Kes
Medical cost ratio is a growing concern among health insurers
Among the worrisome trends discussed on health insurers’ recent earnings calls is a growing medical cost ratio, or MCR, the percent of premium the insurer spends on claims and expenses that improves health care quality. It is sometimes referred to as a medical-loss ratio. … READ MORE >
Health care faces demand for pricing transparency
On June 24, the president signed an executive order designed to improve transparency in the pricing of health care. It’s the latest move in an environment where consumers are exercising power over the cost of treatment, an area that historically offered them little wiggle room. … READ MORE >
Innovation is now part of the insurance ratings mix
Innovation appears to have reached the risk-averse insurance industry. A few weeks ago A.M. Best issued a press release seeking comment on draft criteria for scoring and assessing innovation at the insurance companies it rates. It could lead to an innovation ratings system. … READ MORE >
As telemedicine grows, a ‘digital front door’ lowers health-care costs
Telemedicine—like other industries where digitization of service has transformed an entire ecosystem—is dramatically changing health care delivery. Frequently health systems are partnering with telemedicine providers to build out a digital front door to patient care. … READ MORE >