HealthPartners programs reduce medical expenses by more than $137 million

HealthPartners programs designed to improve the quality and efficiency of care reduced medical expenses by more than $137 million last year, according to the organization’s 2009 Return on Investment report. HealthPartners reports that decision support for diagnostic imaging reduced unnecessary tests by more than $6.7 million, a 15 percent increase over the previous year’s savings.

“It’s positive for everyone—patients get the best care that’s also the most cost effective.”

The program provides physicians the latest guidelines from the American College of Radiology to confirm that a test is appropriate. HealthPartners program to encourage generic drug use resulted in HealthPartners members saving $73.7 million, up from $64 million the previous year. Generics accounted for the biggest cost savings.

“This really demonstrates how well our providers are using best practices,” said Babette Apland, HealthPartners senior vice president for health and care management. “It’s positive for everyone—patients get the best care that’s also the most cost effective.”