Independence Blue Cross Announces Blue Distinction Centers for Complex and Rare Cancers(SM) in Ph...( PHILADELPHIA March 12 /- As part ...),Health

PHILADELPHIA, March 12 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of its ongoing effort to give consumers information to improve health care decision-making, Independence Blue Cross today announced that four area hospitals have been selected as Blue Distinction Centers for Complex and Rare Cancers(SM).

Blue Distinction(R) is a nationwide program created to give consumers more information to make wise health care decisions and to work with their health care providers to improve the quality and affordability of medical care. Blue Distinction identifies specialty centers that offer the best practices and highest standards in cardiac care, bariatric surgery, transplants and now complex and rare cancers. Independence Blue Cross participates in the Blue Distinction program as a member of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

Complex and rare cancers comprise approximately 15 percent of new cancer cases each year, making it difficult for patients to locate or research facilities with oncological or surgical teams that are experienced in this specialty. The Blue Distinction designation helps identify these institutions. Those recognized as Blue Distinction Centers for Rare and Complex Cancers(SM) include: Abington Memorial Hospital, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.

"We are committed to working collaboratively with physicians and hospitals so that together we continually raise the quality of health care in our region-- whether through Blue Distinction, our incentive-based reimbursement program for physicians and hospitals, or other joint efforts, like the Partnership for Patient Care," said Joseph A. Frick, president and chief executive officer at Independence Blue Cross. "We are proud that we partner with the four cancer care facilities in our region that are Blue Distinction Centers and very pleased to offer our members access to the sophisticated, specialized treatment they offer t
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