Choosing a health plan? State online tool can make it easier

Health consumers in the central San Joaquin Valley will choose health plans during open enrollment season this fall, and California’s Office of the Patient Advocate has an online ratings tool that can help them make the best decisions.

The state rated the 10 largest health maintenance organizations (HMO), five largest preferred provider organizations (PPO) and more than 200 commercial medical groups.

The Health Care Quality Report Card offers a side-by-side comparison of health plans on quality and patient experience. The tool also provides medical group cost ratings.

The state provides an assessment of health plans and medical groups in such areas as effectiveness in diagnosing and treating health conditions, including diabetes, mental health and pediatric care.

Kaiser Permanente Northern and Southern California were the only health plans in California to earn a four-star rating, the highest possible, for overall clinical effectiveness. Kaiser Permanente Northern California also scored four stars for behavioral and mental health care.

“These ratings illustrate that our commitment to clinical excellence and prevention is paying off. We’re keeping people healthier and preventing illnesses and diseases from occurring in the first place,” said Janet Liang, president of Kaiser Permanente Northern California.

“We’re committed to keeping our members at the center of everything we do and giving them a safe, high-quality care experience.”

This story was originally published October 24, 2016 at 4:39 PM with the headline "Choosing a health plan? State online tool can make it easier."