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By serving 1 in 3 British Columbians, Pacific Blue Cross is the largest health and dental benefits provider in B.C.–a success its CEO attributes in part to being deeply rooted in the province.
“We were started by a group of employers, health professionals and unions in 1940 who felt it was really important that groups of workers have the security of health care provided for them and their families,” says Pacific Blue Cross chief executive officer, Jan K. Grude.
Pacific Blue Cross is incorporated as a not-for profit society. Any proceeds go into keeping contribution rates and administrative costs low. “As an insurer, one of the things you need to do is to make the investments in technology, particularly in client service, that keep you not only current, but help you establish a platform that will see you out five to 10 years,” says Grude.
Innovation in health care is a key driver for Pacific Blue Cross, who is actively engaged in improving access to health technology in British Columbia, and supporting integrated, patient-centric care.
Pacific Blue Cross plan members can submit claims online or through its CARESnet mobile app for almost every extended health benefit, plus vision care and orthodontics. As well, its health practitioner network numbers in the thousands, offering direct billing at place of treatment. “The whole purpose is to lead the benefits industry into the 21st century, to help group plan sponsors and members to navigate the complexities of the health care system while doing almost everything online,” says Grude. “And being a B.C. company, we’re right here if you need personal consultation.”