PITTSBURGH, May 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Highmark has launched a Health Partner program to encourage Highmark Medicare Advantage members to designate a family member, friend or other loved one as an advocate who can help them navigate the complex health care system. The objective of the program is to formally connect caregivers to the Highmark Medicare Advantage member for whom they care in order to obtain appropriate health care services and help them stay as healthy as possible.
"Navigating the health care system can be a real challenge for the Medicare population, particularly those most vulnerable," said Cindy Dellecker, senior vice president of senior markets at Highmark. "It's so important for them to understand medications and treatment options so that they receive the care that they want and need. That's why a program like Health Partner is crucial. Through a designated health partner, Highmark can communicate and provide resources that can help improve the care of our members."
Highmark Medicare Advantage members enrolled in SecurityBlue HMO and FreedomBlue PPO in Pennsylvania and West Virginia can designate a health partner with Highmark. The health partner will have access to resources to support the Highmark member including care and case management, condition management, health and wellness programs and more.
"The purpose of the program is for members to officially identify a person who will receive information from Highmark and provide assistance to help them meet their care needs," said Dellecker.
The relationship of a health partner with a member is informal and doesn't override any legal authority in a power-of-attorney agreement. Health partners have HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) authority to discuss members' personal health information. To enroll in the program, members can contact the toll-free member service number on the back of their member ID card.
For more information, visit https://www.highmark.com/hmk2/about/newsroom/2011/pr051211.shtml.
SOURCE Highmark