By Courtney Beckers, National Accounts Executive at Hines
Retail giant Walmart has recently announced the closure of its in-store clinics, a move that has sparked conversations about the evolving landscape of the American healthcare industry and its delivery to consumers. Though localized to Walmart’s operations, this reflects a broader shift in the industry; this announcement comes on the heels of a class action lawsuit against Cigna for allegedly using AI to deny 300,000 claims for their members in just two months. These recent developments raise concerns about access to care, while also highlighting the pitfalls of trying to establish an automated, homogenized “McHealthcare” solution to America’s workforce and their families.
At Hines, we recognize the importance of staying aware of these developments and adapting our strategies to navigate the ever-changing tides of healthcare. The closure of these clinics underscores the need for innovative and comprehensive approaches to healthcare accessibility and affordability, while offering highly personalized care. Hines remains committed to offering comprehensive and scalable care management tools to empower our clients and help them navigate these challenges effectively. In today’s marketplace, Hines is necessary for employer groups seeking cost-effective solutions without sacrificing quality of care for their members.
In 2021, healthcare spending reached $4.3 trillion dollars, or $12,914 per person, according to Health System Tracker. The CDC says 90% of that number is from individuals with chronic and mental health conditions. Diabetes alone reached an estimated $327 billion in medical costs and lost productivity in 2017. With solutions like our specialized case management, Hines works with individuals to manage these conditions and minimize unnecessary and avoidable costs.
The issue, however, is not just the cost of care. Hines is also committed to helping the individual maintain their quality of life: “Hines provides members the level of assistance they need to have active and healthy lives. Someone at risk for a chronic condition or a pre-condition (diabetes, hypertension) can receive education on reversing these potentially life altering diagnoses. Our team can also assist an individual who already has a chronic condition to better manage their health and avoid co-morbidities and medical crisis” writes Suzanne Casel, RN, Director of Behavioral Health & Wellness at Hines.
Hines can help mitigate the impact of disruptions like the closure of Walmart’s clinics, ensuring continuity of care with our StandbyMDTM solution. Hines offers services like these that work with any health plan. Additionally, our wellness app Healthy Tomorrows™ by Hines offers access right from their smartphone or computer browser, allowing individuals to empower their wellbeing. By implementing our high touch, personalized approach to care management, as well as our holistic approach to preventative care, we can not only ensure the fairest prices for care but also the best quality of life for members.
The future of healthcare goes beyond insurance and provider, it will take everyone involved at every level from Washington DC to the members themselves. We at Hines are proud to help stem the tide of rising healthcare costs while delivering member-centered solutions to our clients. Reach out today to learn how we are moving healthcare forward!
To message Courtney, please click here.
Dylan York contributed to this article.
