Care Improvement 2010 Medicare health plan benefits

Care Improvement Plus, a leader in improving the quality of care for seniors with chronic illness and operator of one of the largest special needs plans in Arkansas and Missouri, has released the details of its 2010 Medicare health plan benefits, including two new state-wide plans to be offered to beneficiaries across both states.

Care Improvement Plus' new offerings include its "Dual Advantage" special needs plan, designed to support beneficiaries with Medicare and full Medicaid, and "Care Improvement Plus Medicare Advantage" for area beneficiaries without special needs. In addition, the company has strengthened benefits for its chronic condition Special Needs Plan for Medicare beneficiaries diagnosed with diabetes and/or heart failure, including lower premiums and generic drug copays across its Gold Rx plan options. The company currently has over 9,200 members in the region.

"Based on the success and quality achievements of our chronic condition plan, we felt there was opportunity for additional Medicare beneficiaries to benefit from our unique approach to managing care," said Frederick C. Dunlap, board chairman and chief executive officer of XLHealth, which owns and operates Care Improvement Plus. "We remain focused on delivering high-quality care and serving the underserved, with the added capability to offer enrollment to spouses and caregivers of our special needs plan members."

All Care Improvement Plus plans provide comprehensive Medicare coverage and a Part D prescription drug benefit, plus valuable benefits such as dental, vision, and transportation coverage, and care management support. In addition, plans feature an open access provider network where members may go to any Medicare-approved provider that will accept payment from Care Improvement Plus.

"Our goal is to serve as a model for improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare spending for Arkansas and Missouri's costliest Medicare beneficiaries," continues Dunlap.

Care Improvement Plus will open enrollment on November 15, 2009 for services effective January 1, 2010. Those interested in learning more about Care Improvement Plus may call 1-800-711-1656, or visit www.careimprovementplus.com for more information.