New Jersey’s Largest Oncology Provider and Insurer Sign Transformative Agreement to Provide Value-Based Cancer Care

HACKENSACK, N.J., Nov. 20, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Launching a partnership to improve cancer care delivery statewide, Regional Cancer Care Associates (RCCA), New Jersey's largest oncology physician network, and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey (Horizon BCBSNJ), New Jersey's largest health insurer, have signed a transformative three-year contract to improve patient outcomes while addressing the increase in costs known as value-based healthcare.

"RCCA consists of a single group of more than 75 oncologists, growing to include more than 100, and 500 support staff in 20 locations located throughout New Jersey dedicated to improving the quality and affordability of cancer care delivery," said Andrew L. Pecora, M.D., F.A.C.P., C.P.E., President of RCCA.  "We are pleased to enter into a partnership with Horizon BCBSNJ with the mutual goal of providing greater value to Horizon BCBSNJ members in need of cancer and hematologic care."

This unique collaboration is part of a collective effort to transform New Jersey's healthcare system by having providers and insurers work together to reward the value of care patients receive, rather than the volume of care through incentive structures that benefit all parties.

"We look forward to working with RCCA in an innovative way that will improve the cancer care Horizon members receive," said Horizon BCBSNJ Vice President of Network Management and Horizon Healthcare Innovations, Jim Albano. "Horizon continues its ongoing effort to partner with providers to transform the way healthcare is delivered in New Jersey and this is another example of our commitment."

"We expect this agreement with Horizon BCBSNJ to result in more comprehensive, coordinated care that ensures patients are receiving care that meets best practices for oncology interventions," said William T. DeRosa, DO, Chairman, Contracting Committee, RCCA.

"Horizon is willing to work with RCCA physicians to improve quality and further reduce the cost of care," said Edward J. Licitra, MD, PhD, Board Chairman, RCCA.

About Regional Cancer Care Associates

Regional Cancer Care Associates is the largest oncology physician network in New Jersey. Physicians in our integrated, value-based cancer care network accept their responsibility to work with insurance companies, hospitals and referring physicians to provide patients continued access to the highest quality, compassionate care and cutting edge therapies while reducing the cost of cancer care.

Regional Cancer Care Associates extends across New Jersey with more than 75 cancer care specialists, growing to include more than 100, and is supported by 500 employees at 20 care delivery sites, providing care to more than 17,000 new patients annually and over 70,000 existing patients.  For more information, visit.  www.RC2Acancercare.com.

About Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, the state's oldest and largest health insurer, is a tax-paying, not-for-profit health services corporation, providing a wide array of medical, dental, and prescription insurance products and services.  Horizon BCBSNJ is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, serving more than 3.6 million members with headquarters in Newark and offices in Wall, Mt. Laurel, and West Trenton.  Learn more at www.HorizonBlue.com

Media Contact:
Amy Leahing
P4 Strategy Group
Senior Associate
[email protected]
305-458-0599

Bryan Soltes
Regional Cancer Care Associates
Vice President, Marketing and New Business Development
[email protected]
201-996-4850

Thomas Vincz
Horizon BCBSNJ
PR Manager
[email protected]
973-466-6625

SOURCE Regional Cancer Care Associates (RCCA)