State Health Plan Expands No-Cost Surgery Options with OrthoCarolina Partnership
The State Health Plan in North Carolina is broadening its no-cost surgery options by collaborating with OrthoCarolina, through the assistance of Lantern, a platform focused on specialty care. This strategic move aims to provide enhanced surgical access to Plan members without financial burden.
“Our members are benefitting from high-quality providers who are willing to try an innovative approach to patient care,” stated Treasurer Brad Briner. “OrthoCarolina has a best-in-class reputation, and we can now steer members there for certain procedures for no cost out of their pocket.”
Amidst the backdrop of rising healthcare expenses, value-based care models are instrumental in enhancing access and reducing overall costs while ensuring a coordinated patient experience. The Lantern Surgical Benefit connects eligible members to top-tier surgeons and facilities for selected procedures at zero cost. This program emphasizes a comprehensive care approach, from consultations to recovery, aiming to curb escalating healthcare costs for the Plan.
OrthoCarolina is highly regarded for its physician-led model, emphasizing value-based orthopedic care through standardized surgical pathways and ambulatory surgery center delivery. These measures aim to enhance outcomes, reduce costs, and improve the patient experience. With over 40 locations across North Carolina, OrthoCarolina is increasing access and surgical capacity, supported by developments such as a new ambulatory surgery center in Steele Creek and expanding the Matthews surgical center.
“OrthoCarolina is proud to partner with the State Health Plan and Lantern to help expand access to high-quality surgical care for members across North Carolina,” said Dr. Leo Spector, CEO of OrthoCarolina. “Being selected as a preferred partner reflects our long-standing investment in physician-led care, standardized pathways, and ambulatory surgery delivery designed to improve outcomes and create a more connected patient experience. This model reflects the growing shift toward value-based care that better aligns providers, employers, and health plans around quality, affordability, and patient outcomes.”
The State Health Plan is exploring innovative initiatives to enhance care access while managing healthcare expenditures. Programs like Lantern link members with quality providers for certain non-emergent surgeries at no cost, fostering a coordinated care experience that could lead to improved outcomes.
For more details about the Lantern benefit, visit the Plan’s website at www.shpnc.org.
About the North Carolina State Health Plan:
The State Health Plan, part of the Department of State Treasurer, offers healthcare coverage to over 750,000 individuals, including teachers, state employees, retirees, current and former lawmakers, and university and community college personnel and their dependents.
About OrthoCarolina:
Since 1922, OrthoCarolina has been a leader in orthopedic care, known for its physician-owned and led approach. The practice provides exceptional, patient-centered care and advances in orthopedic treatment, research, and education. Operating over 40 locations and nine Orthopedic Urgent Care Centers across the Carolinas, OrthoCarolina is committed to medical advancements and training new specialists. Learn more at orthocarolina.com.
About Lantern:
Lantern is a Specialty Care Platform that helps employers manage costs in specialty care, a rapidly growing expense area. Lantern’s Network of Excellence comprises top surgeons and centers nationwide, connecting members with a dedicated care team including Care Advocates and nurse navigators. This model enhances access and personal support, resulting in an average 4% trend reduction for employers. Trusted by major employers, Lantern delivers care to over 6 million members across the country.
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