Lanier Health Services - Press Releases

News Release

Contact:   Cindy Brooks
Address:  4800 48th Street
Phone:  334-756-1402
Lanier Health Services
Fax:      334-756-6698
Public Relations
Valley, AL   36854

January 6, 2011                                                                                  For Immediate Release

Lanier Health Services Designated Blue

Cross/Blue Shield Tier 1 Hospital

Lanier Health Services announced today that it has been designated as a Tier 1 Hospital by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama for delivering high-quality, cost-effective healthcare.  Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama categorizes Alabama hospitals into three “tiers” based on their performance in the areas of quality, patient safety and financial awareness.  Tier 1 Hospitals are recognized for attaining the highest level of compliance in each of these areas.

Quality Awareness reflects the hospital’s commitment to specific programs designed to improve the quality of care rendered.  Lanier Health Services has demonstrated a commitment to quality by implementing quality improvement programs, actively participating in an effort to reduce hospital-acquired infections, by sharing best practices and by engaging in efforts to increase healthcare transparency.

Patient Safety Awareness scored high marks for Lanier Health Services due to safe practice standards being implemented which include the formation of Rapid Response Teams, establishing Champions of Patient Safety Teams (COPS), performing above average on national core quality measures, implementing Comprehensive Unit-based Safety Programs (CUSP), providing Continuing Education programs to staff on specific safety initiatives, and making a commitment to improving patient care. 

Financial Awareness measures the financial performance of the hospital.  Through financial arrangements with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, Lanier Health Services is working to ensure that their patients receive the most cost-effective care for their health care dollar.

Blue Cross members whose plans recognize the tiered system and who utilize Tier 1 Hospitals receive the greatest level of plan benefit, which may reduce co-pays and deductibles by up to 50% as compared to a Tier II Hospital.

“We are very pleased to receive the Tier 1 designation which enables patients with Blue Cross Blue Shield medical plans that recognize the tiered system to realize the highest benefit level when they seek care from Lanier Health Services,” said Doug Dewberry, CEO of the hospital.  “We are proud of the care we provide for all of our patients, and we are happy to receive this recognition as a Tier I Hospital.”