Dear Friends,
I have just learned to Tweet, and know the objective is to be newsworthy and followed. Tweeting is just the latest way the GIC is staying relevant to members and other constituents. Tweet, tweet reminds me of the classic Disney song, “Let’s All Sing Like the Birdies Sing,” followed by the refrain, Tweet, Tweet, Tweet, Tweet. The juxtaposition of new and old is one of the many assets of the GIC and why we continue to be leaders in the health care and benefits industry. Our long-time employees bring a wealth of institutional knowledge, strong work ethics, and stability to our mission, while our newer employees bring vibrancy, enthusiasm, and new ways of approaching our many challenges. In keeping with our strengths, you’ll see both the new and old Tweeting themes throughout this report.
Fiscal Year 2012 brought new challenges to the GIC and we again were leaders in providing comprehensive, quality benefits at reasonable costs. Through effective management and negotiation skills we were able to achieve the lowest premium increases in at least 12 years, while also offering modest benefit enhancements to members. Our Clinical Performance Improvement Initiative, which evaluates providers on quality and efficiency, entered its eighth year, and enhancements were made in the project’s analytic methods while also improving our collaboration with providers.
Chapter 69 of the Acts of 2011 made it easier for municipalities to join the GIC, along with expedited and frequent enrollments during the fiscal year. The GIC successfully added 14 municipalities and over 17,500 new members, ensuring a smooth transition for the members and savings to these employees, retirees and their communities. Another law, Chapter 288 of the Acts of 2010, called for a new wellness program, and the GIC offered a pilot program to over 60,000 state employees and early retirees to help them improve their physical well-being.
This Fiscal Year 2012 Annual Report includes an overview of many of the other accomplishments the GIC achieved for its members and the taxpayers of the Commonwealth. As we head into a new era of health care with new federal mandates, new state laws on payment reform and a challenging economy, the GIC is well positioned for 2013 and beyond. We trust that as you read this report, you will concur that the GIC continues to take the lead in providing its members cost-effective, quality benefits. Be sure to follow us on Twitter @MassGIC.
Very truly yours,
Dolores L. Mitchell
Executive Director
This information provided by the Group Insurance Commission.
