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AMA addresses insurer transparency, treatment plans, influenza

Ambulatory Surgery Reimbursement Update, June 20, 2006

The American Medical Association (AMA) adopted new policies addressing health plan and insurer transparency, patient adherence to treatment plans, and influenza vaccine at its annual meeting last week, according to a press release from the AMA.

The AMA challenged the health insurance industry to reveal its pricing systems for medical services to help patients gain a better understanding of the costs associated with their healthcare.

"There is no legitimate rationale behind health insurers' refusal to provide their payment policies and actual costs to patients and physicians," said Cyril Hetsko, MD, AMA board member, according to the press release. "It serves only as a means for the health insurance industry to avoid accountability."

The AMA also voted to help "develop a list of resources to help physicians and patients optimize adherence" to medical treatment programs and to work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to "ensure adequate influenza vaccine distribution and administration," according to the press release.

To view the press release, click here.

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