Aetna, Rush Health partner for commercial health product

Aetna and Rush Health on Oct. 15 announced a collaboration to launch Aetna Whole Health Chicago, a commercial healthcare product in Illinois that will give members access to coordinated care.

Aetna Whole Health Chicago will track outcomes, share data and measure clinical standards to improve quality and efficiency.

“We are shifting the healthcare system from one that focuses on quantity of services to one that offers consumers more choice, more value from services and higher quality care at a more affordable price,” Nitin Bhargava, president of Aetna’s Illinois operations, said. “The outcome can be a better patient experience, a healthier community and fewer people in hospitals.”

Aetna Whole Health Chicago will be available to self-insured businesses beginning Nov. 1 for an effective date of March 1, 2016. Fully insured plans will be available Nov. 1 for an effective date of April 1, 2016. For 2017, it is anticipated that the Rush Health arrangement also will be available to individuals through the health insurance marketplace.

“The Aetna Whole Health Chicago product is completely aligned with the mission and values of our organization and providers, and is unique compared to other local health plan choices,” Brent J. Estes, president and CEO of Rush Health, said. “Employers and consumers will have access to a high-value product comprised of premier providers focused on improving quality and access and reducing costs.”

Aetna is transforming healthcare to create healthier communities, a healthier nation and a healthier world.