Philadelphia-based Premier Orthopaedics signed a contract with Independence Blue Cross to participate in the payer's Facilitated Health Networks.
Here are five things to know:
1. On Oct. 1, Premier Orthopaedics joined FHN, a partnership to bring together health insurers, hospitals and physicians to improve quality and lower costs.
2. The five-year agreement brings Premier Orthopaedics into a network of providers dedicated to delivering care at the most appropriate, high-quality, low-cost setting.
3. Under the agreement, Premier implemented a site of service and episode of care program to place physicians in charge of the entire care episode. The physicians are now responsible for ensuring the diagnostic tests and procedures are being appropriately performed in the right setting.
4. The two organizations have partnered in the past and Matt O'Malley, president and CEO of Premier, said the partnership is "a natural evolution of our longstanding and collaborative relationship."
5. Premier Orthopaedics includes 72 physicians and 30 offices as well as physical therapy, MRI and orthopedic urgent care.