The Philadelphia Inquirer (The Inquirer) published a Philly First article, “How Independence Blue Cross Helps Turn Good Ideas into Better Care,” highlighting programs IBX has underway with regional health systems. The programs include the Advanced Network for Gene-Based Therapeutics and the Clinical Care Innovation (CCI) Grant Program.
Dr. Richard Snyder, IBX executive vice president, discussed how the partnerships are focused on improving access, advancing quality, and making health care more affordable.
“By bringing together the people and organizations best positioned to address our region’s most pressing health challenges, we’re helping transform promising ideas into programs that benefit our members and strengthen the health of Southeastern Pennsylvania,” Dr. Snyder said.
The article highlights K.J. Muldoon’s story and how IBX coverage helped his family access specialized care at CHOP and Penn Medicine. K.J. became the first person to receive a personalized CRISPR gene-editing therapy at just six months old. Through the Advanced Network for Gene-based Therapeutics, K.J. received a customized treatment plan that has helped improve his health and quality of life.
Dr. Reetika Kumar, IBX senior vice president and chief of customer product, clinical solutions, and pharmacy services, said the network goes beyond providing coverage to treatments like this. “As new therapies continue to emerge, the network provides a structure that helps members access care while receiving support from dedicated nurse health coaches and experienced clinical teams,” Dr. Kumar said.
The story also highlights IBX’s CCI Program, which has awarded more than $4.8 million to regional health systems and specialty groups to develop innovative approaches to care. Temple Health has leveraged IBX’s grant funding to develop programs that improve quality care for patients, including cancer screening, diabetes, and chronic disease management.
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