PA Governor Rendell Says Pennsylvania Again Leads the Nation With Introduction of Chronic Care Manag...( HARRISBURG Pa. Feb. 13 -- Govern...),Health

HARRISBURG, Pa., Feb. 13 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Edward G. Rendell today received a blueprint that will save the health care system in Pennsylvania billions of dollars as the commonwealth becomes the national leader in the way it delivers and pays for treatment of chronic diseases while significantly improving care.

The Chronic Care Management, Reimbursement and Cost Reduction Commission delivered its first report to the Governor today as part of the Governor's Prescription for Pennsylvania health care reform plan.

"Chronic diseases are the leading cause of death and disability in Pennsylvania and account for 80 percent of our health care costs," Governor Rendell said. "Our present system treats acute illness; it doesn't control chronic disease. And, faced with the increasing cost of health care, governments, businesses, insurers and Pennsylvania families have -- out of necessity -- chosen to limit health care services.

"In Pennsylvania, only 56 percent of people with a chronic condition receive the recommended care to manage their disease. Unfortunately, evidence is mounting that exactly the opposite approach is more successful.

"The good news is that we know that if health care providers adopt evidence-based protocols proven to help manage chronic disease, it will have long-term health benefits for people. It will also have economic benefits as healthier employees mean improved productivity for our businesses and taking appropriate preventative measures can reduce the need for many expensive emergency room visits and translates to lower insurance premiums overall. That's why this report -- this blueprint -- is critical for improving quality of life and to save money."

The 44 members of the Chronic Care Management, Reimbursement and Cost Reduction Commission have worked since last September to develop a plan that proposes a pilot program enrolling 30-60 primary care practices in the southeastern region
'/>"/>