Anthem pays patients to choose cheaper docs

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Connecticut is testing an experimental type of health plan that pays patients hundreds of dollars in cash rebates for choosing lower-cost doctors. Its new "SmartShopper" program forces customers to be aware of healthcare costs because they can compare prices, reports the Hartford Courant. "The SmartShopper program is really building upon a philosophy that we have here at Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of increased transparency, especially as members look for greater and greater choice," said Paul Bartosic, Anthem's director of sales. However, Anthem says the plan doesn't penalize customers for choosing a more expensive doctor. Article