The Blue Star Medical Group/IPA Report recognizes HMO contracting medical groups/Independent Practice Associations (IPAs) that have documented high levels of performance in providing patient care. Medical group performance is measured annually by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) in accordance with nationally based clinical practice and preventive care guidelines. Groups earn a "blue star" each time they meet the target care goal.

Performance Measures
Results are publicly reported for five performance measures, based on care provided through 2006.

• Asthma Care with a documented Asthma Action Plan rate of at least 75 percent
• Childhood Immunization measured by at least 70 percent of children who turned age 2 receiving immunizations within recommended timeframes
• Diabetes Care that demonstrated high levels of performance in providing routine diabetic care
• Mental Health Follow-Up measured by at least 65 percent of members with a mental health admission having a follow-up visit with a behavioral health provider within seven days of hospital discharge
• NEW! Breast Cancer Screening measured by at least 60 percent of female members age 42 to 69 having a mammogram within a two-year period

Blue Star Results
Of the 118 medical groups/IPAs included in this report, 49 groups (42 percent) received all five blue stars and 28 groups (24 percent) received four blue stars.

In addition to publicly reporting the results, results are shared with the individual medical groups/IPAs.

Resources for Making Wiser Decisions
HMO members can use the Blue Star Medical Group/IPA Report - along with the Blue Star Hospital Report to make more informed health care decisions about choosing providers.

View the 2007 Blue Star Medical Group/IPA Report.