UnitedHealthcare: Introduction
UnitedHealthcare is betting big on its Surest unit as the insurer releases new data on where the plan has seen success in the past several years. The Surest plan, originally launched as Bind in 2016 and rebranded in 2022, aims to improve affordability by eliminating deductibles and providing upfront pricing details.
Overview of the Surest Plan
Launch and Rebranding
The Surest plan first debuted as Bind in 2016, offering a revolutionary approach to health insurance. In 2022, it rebranded as Surest, reflecting its commitment to clear, predictable pricing and easy access to UnitedHealthcare services.
Key Features
The Surest plan’s unique design eliminates deductibles and offers transparent pricing to members before they receive treatment. This approach aims to improve affordability and make UnitedHealthcare costs more predictable for members.
Cost Savings and Utilization Improvements
Comparative Analysis
A study conducted by analysts at Aon compared data from Surest enrollees in 2021 and 2022 to a control group. The findings were impressive, showing that Surest drove claims cost savings of over $400 per member per year.
Specific Cost Savings
The Aon study highlighted significant cost savings across various conditions and age groups:
– Migraine treatments: 12% lower costs
– Mental health services: 11% lower costs
– Anxiety treatments: 10% lower costs
– Back pain treatments: 8% lower costs
– Diabetes treatments: 7% lower costs
Additionally, spending on emergency care and outpatient surgeries was reduced by 10% and 12%, respectively. Notably, these savings did not come at the expense of restricted utilization.
Enhancing Member Experience
Simplifying Healthcare Navigation
The Surest plan addresses the complexity and confusion often associated with UnitedHealthcare benefits. By eliminating deductibles and providing clear information, Surest helps members navigate their healthcare options more easily.
Digital Integration
Members expect a seamless digital experience similar to other industries. Surest meets this expectation with a user-friendly app that allows members to find physicians, schedule appointments, and access pricing information effortlessly. Alison Richards, CEO of Surest, emphasizes the importance of digital engagement in transforming the healthcare experience.
Future Prospects
Personalized Benefit Offerings
Looking ahead, the Surest team aims to enhance personalization in benefit offerings. For example, providing upfront copayment data for outpatient surgeries across the entire episode of care can further improve transparency and member satisfaction.
Rewards and Incentives
The Surest plan is exploring ways to incorporate rewards and other incentives to encourage members to make cost-effective healthcare choices. This approach aims to deliver additional value to both employers and employees.
Conclusion
UnitedHealthcare’s Surest plan has demonstrated significant cost savings and improved utilization without sacrificing quality. By simplifying healthcare navigation and leveraging digital tools, Surest is poised to continue its success and drive further innovation in health benefits.
Discover the latest payers’ news updates with a single click. Follow DistilINFO HealthPlan and stay ahead with updates. Join our community today!
FAQs
Q: What is the Surest plan?
A: The Surest plan, originally launched as Bind in 2016 and rebranded in 2022, eliminates deductibles and offers upfront pricing details to improve affordability and predictability in healthcare costs.
Q: How much cost savings has Surest achieved?
A: A study by Aon found that Surest achieved claims cost savings of over $400 per member per year, with significant reductions in spending on various conditions and services.
Q: How does Surest simplify healthcare navigation?
A: Surest provides clear, upfront information about healthcare costs and eliminates deductibles, making it easier for members to understand their benefits and make informed decisions.
Q: What digital tools does Surest offer?
A: Surest offers a user-friendly app that allows members to find physicians, schedule appointments, and access pricing information, enhancing the overall healthcare experience.
Q: What are the plans for Surest?
A: The Surest team plans to continue enhancing personalization in benefit offerings and exploring rewards and incentives to deliver additional value to members.