Anthem members in certain health plans selecting a ConvenientMD PCP will soon have no-cost access to ConvenientMD primary care, labs, X-rays, and urgent care
SOUTH PORTLAND, MAINE — Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine and ConvenientMD are partnering to expand primary care capacity in Maine.
Starting in 2023, Anthem members in certain employer plans will have no-cost access to ConvenientMD’s new primary care practices in Portland, Maine and Portsmouth, N.H. By selecting a ConvenientMD primary care provider (PCP), all on-site labs, procedures, X-rays, and urgent care visits will also be no cost when a member visits any ConvenientMD urgent care clinic in Maine or Portsmouth, N.H.
“We know that primary care is the gateway to the healthcare system, and as such plays a critical role in identifying potential medical issues before they become severe – and costly. While we know this to be the case, studies show declining primary care use in recent years,” said Denise McDonough, president of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine. “That’s why Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield has been working to expand primary care capacity in the state with partners like ConvenientMD because it ultimately means better health outcomes for Mainers.”
ConvenientMD recently opened a primary care practice in Portsmouth, N.H., and will open a Portland, Maine location in November, with additional locations in Maine planned for later in 2023. Starting January 1, 2023, Anthem Maine members in most employer-sponsored PPO, HMO, and HRA plans are eligible to receive their PCP visits and urgent care visits at $0 cost share when they select a ConvenientMD primary care provider in Portland or Portsmouth and receive other services at any ConvenientMD urgent care clinic in Maine or Portsmouth, N.H. Anthem and ConvenientMD are exploring the possibility of offering the $0 cost share benefit with additional ConvenientMD urgent care clinics in the future and with other Anthem plans in 2024.
“We believe there should be no barriers between you and your good health. Our vision is to not only make primary care much more accessible and affordable, but also support you when you need services beyond primary care,” said Gareth Dickens, CEO of ConvenientMD. “Whether you need the hospital, a specialist, or an imaging center, we will help you navigate the challenges of an often confusing and expensive healthcare system.”
By joining ConvenientMD primary care, Anthem members will have access to same and next-day appointments that start on time, access to ConvenientMD urgent care clinics in Maine and Portsmouth, N.H., a more personalized level of attention, and a care team to help with everything from specialist referrals to medication management to health coaching, all at no cost.
“Through highly coordinated care like what ConvenientMD is offering, we can help avoid unnecessary emergency room visits, help consumers achieve better health, and reduce healthcare costs for everyone – a win-win-win for all Mainers,” McDonough said.
“The addition of primary care provides an opportunity for us to improve access and health outcomes for patients, while reducing the costs and inefficiencies that have burdened the overall healthcare system for decades. We look forward to working with Anthem and serving the southern Maine community now and adding more locations later in 2023,” said Dickens.
About Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Anthem Health Plans of Maine, Inc., an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ®ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Additional information about Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine is available at www.anthem.com. Also, follow us on Twitter at @AnthemBCBS_News and @AnthemBCBS or find us on Facebook.
About ConvenientMD
ConvenientMD, New England's leading urgent care provider, is dedicated to delivering the best medical care and patient experience throughout Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. All state-of-the-art urgent care centers are staffed with expert medical professionals and certified lead providers who are committed to providing high-quality, convenient and affordable treatment for patients of all ages. Visit any ConvenientMD for injuries and illnesses, on-site COVID-19 testing, X-rays, labs, minor procedures, IV fluids and more, 8am-8pm, 7 days a week. For more information, please visit www.convenientmd.com .
Media Contact:
Stephanie DuBois
stephanie.dubois@anthem.com
Ph:(603) 541-2112
