Payer

Blue Shield of California will use an algorithm with a "focus on equity" to distribute COVID-19 vaccines in California under a contract that outlines how the insurer will oversee the state's distribution process, according to The Los Angeles Times. 

Most U.S. health systems saw a reduction in elective procedures in the spring of 2020, which resulted in significant reductions in Medicare claims, according to a study from healthcare business consulting firm Avalere.  

When health insurers increase cost-sharing for members, it can result in several negative health outcomes and higher mortality, according to a working paper published by the National Bureau of Economic Research. 

CVS Health named Kelly Munson the president of Aetna Medicaid, the company said Feb. 11.

Although Molina Healthcare saw its revenue grow by nearly $1 billion year over year, its profit fell in the fourth quarter when compared to the same period one year prior, according to an earnings report released Feb. 10. 

The following payer executive changes were announced in February so far.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Missouri and St. Louis-based Mercy entered into a cooperative care agreement that aims to improve outcomes and lower costs for patients. 

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and the Blue Care Network will extend cost-sharing waivers for members with COVID-19 through Sept. 30.

Democrats have included proposals to expand Medicaid in the latest $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill, according to CNBC.

Some of Humana's medical and dental members will be able to ask questions about their health plans to a virtual assistant under a new partnership with IBM Watson Health.