In another step toward "consumer-driven" health care, health plans that want to be accredited by the National Committee for Quality Assurance will have to demonstrate that they supply their members with information to help them navigate the care system. They'll also have to have programs in place to promote wellness and manage complex conditions. These particular standards have been in place on a voluntary basis since 2005, but the organization is making them mandatory as of 2007.
To learn more about NCQA's plans:
- take a look at the group's release