title: The role of Blue Cross and Blue Shield in the future U.S. health care system.
abstract: In a recent speech to Blue Cross and Blue Shield executives and trustees, the author noted that despite the historic success of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans, the future contains challenges arising from an aging population, scarce national resources, and evolving technology. To continue to grow and to meet its customers' needs, he urged Blue Cross and Blue Shield to expand its efforts in several directions: emphasize control of services and costs for the customer; restructure the concept of provider participation; and positively reward providers who exceed minimum standards. He advocated joint ventures between Blue Cross and Blue Shield and nonprofit providers, especially in the area of aged care.
mesh_terms: D054598:Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance Plans / Q000639:trends*; D003695:Delivery of Health Care / Q000639:trends*; D003710:Demography; D006285:Health Planning; D006801:Humans; D007350:Insurance, Hospitalization / Q000639:trends*; D007357:Insurance, Physician Services / Q000639:trends*; D014481:United States