IBC to Increase Reimbursement for Primary Care

Independence Blue Cross (IBC) will increase reimbursement for primary care physicians beginning July 1, 2010.

Monthly capitation rates will increase 12 percent for commercial HMO and POS benefits programs, while Medicare Advantage capitation rates will increase 7 percent.

IBC plans to eliminate the administrative adjustment, formerly known as “preferred access.” This reduction will be offset by increases in base capitation, fee schedules, and revised incentive programs.

It plans to revise its Quality Incentive Payment System (QIPS) to offer more incentive payment opportunities for physicians. It will modify measures and goals for primary care physician and increase its investment in the program. Details will be available in February 2010 on IBC’s NaviNet® web portal.

In January 2011, IBC will begin offering additional incremental reimbursement to practices recognized as patient-centered medical homes by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA).