September 14, 2023
In 2018, Premera Blue Cross and MultiCare formed a first of its kind alliance focused on improving the customer experience and lowering costs. The result was Peak Care, an exclusive provider organization for members in Thurston, Spokane, and Pierce Counties. Through Peak Care, many members benefitted from lower prices, better care, and improved patient experience.
While Premera and MultiCare have made the joint decision to discontinue Peak Care effective January 1, 2024, the strength of our partnership through this initial alliance is foundational to other strategic endeavors and products that support our shared mission to improve healthcare for our communities.
MultiCare continues to be a key provider partner in all our commercial networks. We appreciate the trust you’ve placed in MultiCare and Premera to support your employees’ healthcare needs and we look forward to continuing to serve you in the future.
Employer groups with Peak Care have the following medical and dental options to meet the needs of their business and employees.
Employers offering a Peak Care plan today can renew that plan for 12-months during their 2023 renewal. Groups renewing on or after January 1, 2024 will need to move to an alternate plan. Below are alternative medical options to consider to help you meet the needs of your business and employees.
Premera Blue Cross HMO
Last year Premera Blue Cross HMO launched Core Plus health plans in Pierce, Thurston, and Spokane counties. Beginning January 1, 2024, Premera Blue Cross HMO will expand into King County. MultiCare is a key partner in the HMO network offering. The HMO plans offer cost-effective and whole-person care by providing an integrated care team to support member needs.
Learn more about Premera Blue Cross HMO.
Premera Pathfinder
Premera Pathfinder is our new exclusive provider organization with an emphasis on primary care. Through primary care provider (PCP) designation, members benefit from access to routine primary care and $0 copays with a designated PCP.
Premera Pathfinder uses the Heritage Prime network in Washington state, which includes MultiCare and access to Kinwell primary care clinics specifically designed for Premera members. Out-of-state members have access to the largest national network with BlueCard®.
Premera Pathfinder offers employers a middle-ground option between a low-cost HMO and a higher cost PPO. With Premera Pathfinder, employers can strike a balance between cost savings, access, and flexibility.
Contact your Premera account representative for more information.