Study: Calif. HMO care improves

California released a report card this week showing that HMOs in the state are doing a little bit better than in the past. The Office of the Patient Advocate ranks health management organizations in the state in categories such as preventive care, treatment of acute and chronic illnesses and patient opinions. The report also ranks 150 physician medical groups. Kaiser Permanente Southern California received the top ranking, while Aetna Health, Universal Care and Blue Cross of California finished in a three way tie for last place.

CIGNA Healthcare received the worst reviews from its members, who rated it "fair" in the overall quality of care it delivers. The report notes that many HMOs are still not following state guidelines on preventative cancer screenings or for prescribing antibiotics to children with sore throats.

- see this story from the Los Angeles Times
- see the California HMO Quality of Care report card