UPMC Health Plan signs agreement to offer brain fitness software from Posit Science

UPMC Health Plan announced today that it has signed an agreement to offer award-winning brain fitness software from Posit Science®, at no cost, to all UPMC for Life Medicare Advantage members. This brain training program is a new part of the UPMC Health Plan wellness services, which focus on both mind and body fitness.

The brain fitness software, known as the Insight(TM) Brain Fitness Program, is a suite of five game-like computer exercises that make brain training challenging and effective. The program engages the brain's natural plasticity (the brain's ability to rewire itself) to improve basic brain function.

Michael Merzenich, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer of Posit Science, was recently elected to the Institute of Medicine for his work showing that operations of the adult brain can be significantly improved with the right kind of mental stimulation. Posit Science technology has now been vetted in more than 60 peer-reviewed articles in science and medical journals, showing it improves speed of processing, attention, memory, and quality of life measures.

"We are excited that UPMC Health Plan chose our brain fitness training as a way to revitalize the aging brain," said Dr. Merzenich. "Research trials have shown that spending consistent time on these exercises helps users think quicker, focus better, and remember more of what's going on in their everyday lives."

In addition to improving cognitive health, brain fitness exercise - much like physical exercise - can also improve general health outcomes. Recent studies show the Posit Science exercises improve functional independence, self-confidence, and health-related quality of life. A report funded by the National Institutes of Health indicates that use of the exercises should also reduce health care costs.

"Brain health is important because it affects what matters most - quality of life, emotional health, relationships, everyday tasks, work, and hobbies," said Cathy Batteer, UPMC Health Plan's vice president, Medicare. "Fitness isn't just about your body anymore. We care about overall mind-body wellness, so we are thrilled to be the first health plan in this region to provide our members with this brain fitness software."

Current or new UPMC for Life members who enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, can get the brain fitness software for no additional cost. The program, which retails for $395, will be available to members who request it after Jan. 1, 2010. Members who want the program will get a CD-ROM that can be easily loaded onto a home computer. No prior computer experience is needed to operate the program.

UPMC Health Plan offers a wide range of Medicare-approved plans through UPMC for Life. A variety of HMO and PPO plans are offered, as well as a range of products that include Part D prescription drug coverage.