PPO Network RFI release

PPO Network RFI Nearing Completion!

MINNEAPOLIS, MN. - November 4, 2005 - The Labor/Management Health Care Coalition of the Upper Midwest (LMC) last week moved closer to the selection of a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Network Vendor. Four finalists met with members of the Executive Committee and various other representatives of the labor-management community to discuss the details of their proposals.

The Preferred Provider Organization Network Vendor finalist meeting was the next step in the LMC's PPO Request For Information (RFI) process which began in September and resulted in six (6) vendors - three (3) regional and three (3) national - responding to the comprehensive RFI request, containing questions ranging from quality measures - to administrative processes- to re-pricing.

“LMC is very encouraged with what has been accomplished to date and what has been seen from the finalists in this process,” said LMC's Executive Director, Sean Kenney. “Through this common RFI effort, LMC hopes to identify a PPO Network Vendor that will partner with LMC in its efforts to control health care costs while enhancing the quality of services and care its members are receiving.”

LMC expects to have a decision shortly on who the vendor will be. “There are a few more steps to be completed before a final decision can be made,” said Executive Director Kenney. “There is a tremendous opportunity to not just help LMC members but shape the landscape of health care in this region for years to come. As such, LMC wants to be sure that every possible aspect of this process is covered before a selection is made.”

For further information, questions or comments, contact the coalition at 952-525-2275.