Franklin, TN – On January 16, 2013, the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) approved the remaining 23 counties for the two HCNs offered by Coventry Workers’ Comp Services, giving both a footprint in all 254 Texas counties. While the additional 23 counties are rural, this expansion means that both the First Health HCN and Coventry Workers’ Comp Network HCN (CVTY HCN) provide state-wide coverage for clients and provide a more streamlined implementation eliminating concerns about whether or not all employees live in certified counties. The Coventry and First Health HCNs are the first HCNs to be approved in all counties.
“Coventry initially developed the Texas Health Care Network (HCN) options in 2005 to help clients comply with regulatory requirements outlined in House Bill 7 (HB7),” stated Kate Farley-Agee, vice president, network operations. The purpose of HB7 was to reform a workers’ comp system that had experienced double-digit cost increases, very high medical utilization and low return-to-work rates. This legislation allows employers to choose an HCN network of medical providers experienced in treating occupational injuries while using evidence-based treatment and return-to-work guidelines to provide better control over medical treatment and utilization.
Recent results from the TDI 2012 Annual Workers’ Compensation Network Report Card demonstrate the positive impact of HCNs, suggesting that networks are continuing to mature and bridge the gap between network and non-network claims.
“The First Health and CVTY HCNs were both designed to meet Texas statutory requirements, manage medical care, reduce lost-time costs and improve overall claim outcomes. Our recent expansion helps ensure Coventry’s HCN options align with this goal by offering state-wide access in all counties, with varying providers in the mix, “added Farley-Agee.
Source: Coventry WCS
Disclosure:
Coventry WCS is a WCW Ad Partner.
This is not a paid placement.