An update on changes inside BCBSM
All you have to do is to look at the papers or watch the news, and it's clear that we're living through unprecedented times. The current economic climate affects everything from the way we do business today as well as the way we plan for tomorrow. It also impacts businesses of all sizes and structure. It seems that no one is immune.

No doubt you've heard or read about the changes that are going on at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. The news reports cover information about financial results, early retirements and reducing administrative costs, but these articles never tell the entire story.

The truth is that BCBSM, under the leadership of our president and CEO, Dan Loepp, has been on a path of change for years. With a close eye on the national health care picture as well as the state of Michigan, we've been working hard on building a strategy for our future and tying it to our goals.

A major road block in this process is the current state of the regulatory system for the individual market. Without comprehensive reform of this market, our financial stability could be at risk. That is why BCBSM is working hard to help make the necessary changes that will enable us to compete fairly in this arena.

Other parts of our strategy include looking at ways to enhance our provider relations and strengthen our partnerships with hospitals, doctors and other providers of care. We are also looking at ways to communicate more efficiently, such as through our electronic version of Hospital Update.

Of course, like all businesses in Michigan, we're being asked to do more with less. Recently, I've taken on the extra responsibilities of our operations and claims areas in addition to my other duties.

In many respects, the Blues are being 'rebuilt' to help us become more efficient and stay relevant in the coming years. While these changes are occurring, we will continue to keep our providers' (and other stakeholders) interests in mind because, after all, we're in this together.