Smart Choice MRI is now offering self-insured businesses a preferred provider program that saves as much as 80 percent of typical magnetic resonance images costs.
“The Preferred Provider program is just another way we are shoring up our commitment to redefining value, lowering costs and increasing transparency in today’s healthcare marketplace—all while providing the highest quality care,” said Rick Anderson, Smart Choice MRI chief executive officer, who joined the company earlier this year.
Smart Choice MRI uses GE MRI technology and charges an all-inclusive flat $600 fee, regardless of insurance or self-pay.
Employers who self-insure pay for each employee claim instead of a fixed premium to an insurance carrier. With a typical MRI costing between $1,500 to $3,000, the Smart Choice MRI savings created by the flat-rate $600 fee is so significant that employers often incentivize their employees with gift cards or payroll reimbursements. Other preferred provider benefits include priority scheduling and greater access to preferred lunchtime and evening appointments.
“When 10 percent of an employee population can anticipate MRI use in any given year, according to the Wisconsin Hospital Association, the savings are significant,” Anderson said. “This is clearly a win-win for employer and employees —an innovative way to create better health outcomes and manage costs.”
Anderson also recently named Christine Herbst to the newly created position of vice president of operations. In this role, Herbst will help execute the brand’s management strategies to drive continued growth. Herbst has more than 14 years of experience in health care management.
Smart Choice MRI is scheduled to open a fourth clinic this December in Waukesha. At least four additional locations in select Midwest markets are anticipated for 2015. Smart Choice currently has locations in Milwaukee, Sheboygan and Richfield.
