2008-11-10 05:12:02 -
newsroom.cigna.com/ - CIGNA HealthCare of Texas has been recognized as the top-ranked health plan in the state in this year's annual ranking of health plans conducted by U.S.News & World Report (U.S. News) and National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA).
The HMO and POS rankings are based on the voluntary submission of health care quality results as measured through
HEDIS(R) (Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set); customer service scores based on member surveys through CAHPS(R) (Consumer Assessment of Health Providers and Systems); and scores on NCQA accreditation surveys.
"We are thrilled to be recognized as the highest ranked health plan in Texas by U.S. News and NCQA," said David Toomey, president of CIGNA HealthCare of Texas. "CIGNA is passionate about improving the health and productivity of individuals, and we strive for meaningful measures which validate our efforts. This recognition demonstrates that our focus on quality with an emphasis on preventive care and customer service sets us apart in the state."
"America's Best Health Plans is a practical tool that helps consumers make informed decisions when choosing a health plan," said NCQA President Margaret E. O'Kane. "It lets consumers know which plans have demonstrated they can deliver the highest levels of care and service."
CIGNA HealthCare has a long history and record of success in seeking external validation of its quality improvement programs. CIGNA has earned full accreditation -- the highest rating possible -- from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) for its PPO and Open Access Plus plans* nationwide. In addition, 22 of CIGNA HealthCare's 23 NCQA-accredited HMO and POS health plans have earned Excellent accreditation status and one plan holds Commendable status. All 23 plans have earned Distinction for NCQA's Quality Plus Member Connections and Physician and Hospital Quality standards. The Member Connections standards assess a plan's Web-based and telephonic consumer decision support tools. The Physician and Hospital Quality standards assess how well a plan provides members with information about physicians and hospitals in its network to help consumers make informed health care decisions.
hese plans are offered through Connecticut General Life Insurance Company
About CIGNA
CIGNA (NYSE:CI), a global health service company, is dedicated to helping people improve their health, well-being and security. CIGNA Corporation's operating subsidiaries provide an integrated suite of medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy and vision care benefits, as well as group life, accident and disability insurance, to approximately 47 million people throughout the United States and around the world. To learn more about CIGNA, visit www.cigna.com.
CIGNA HealthCare
Gwyn Dilday, 818-500-6370
gwyn.dilday@cigna.com 
