California unveils report card for 5 health insurers

California has unveiled a new consumer report card on five health insurers — and none got the top rating.

The report on the Department of Insurance Web site grades PPO insurers in such categories as diabetes care and cancer checks. It can award up to four stars.

The scores rely on a combination of customer feedback and how well the care of a sample of policyholders rates when compared with standards set by not-for-profit group National Committee for Quality Assurance.

Aetna, CIGNA HealthCare of California and Health Net of California each received three stars. United Healthcare and Anthem Blue Cross got two stars.

CIGNA spokeswoman Gwyn Dilday said the report card is an important tool for the insurer to help focus improvements, and that the company is pleased with its first grade.

Anthem Blue Cross also applauded the new measure, saying in a statement it is "an important barometer for improving quality, safety, transparency and wellness for all members."

Terri Schroeder, quality management director for Aetna's West Region, said the insurer regularly designs and implements initiatives based on such rankings.

Calls to other insurers weren't immediately returned.

Blue Shield of California wasn't graded because it failed to report findings. Spokesman Aron Ezra said a computer system upgrade made it impossible to provide data this year, but the insurer plans to participate next year

PPO insurers contract with certain doctors and hospitals to provide lower-cost health care. A state report card covering HMOs has been in place since 2002.

California Department of Insurance Web site: www.insurance.ca.gov

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