Geisinger Health System once again ranked among nation's top integrated health networks

DANVILLE (PA)- Geisinger Health System has been named to the 2007 Verispan Integrated Health Networks Top 100 list. This is the fifth time that Geisinger has achieved recognition by Verispan for being among the nation’s top integrated health networks.

The 2007 rankings are the 10th such effort by Verispan, a leading healthcare information database company that provides a wide range of products and services to the healthcare industry, including healthcare profiles, data analysis and consulting. The rankings are based on health systems’ integration of operations, clinical quality, financial performance, efficiency and breadth of services. Verispan surveyed 587 networks and studied more detailed information on approximately 200 eligible systems in completing the 2007 rankings.

“We take great pride at Geisinger on being a truly integrated healthcare delivery system with doctors, other healthcare professionals, hospitals and a health plan all working together to benefit our patients and members,” said Geisinger President and Chief Executive Officer Glenn Steele, Jr., MD, PhD. “We are gratified that Verispan has once again recognized Geisinger as a national leader among integrated health networks.”

The 2007 Verispan report highlights the use of technology and chronic disease management programs to improve care and efficiency, two areas of expertise and accomplishment at Geisinger. Geisinger Health Plan is recognized as a leader in disease management program implementation for a number of chronic health conditions including asthma, diabetes and heart problems, and the health system has nearly a decade of experience with and commitment to the evolution of the electronic health record (EHR).

“Geisinger’s electronic health record enables doctors to consult with specialists, identify health risk factors, talk with patients and, in general, improve the way medicine is practiced throughout our service area, linking primary care physicians with hospital-based specialists in Wilkes-Barre, Danville and State College,” Steele explained.

“The goal of our truly integrated healthcare delivery system is to provide efficient, professional and compassionate care and to add value for our patients and members,” he added.

Founded in 1915, Geisinger Health System is one of the largest rural healthcare providers in the United States.  A fully integrated healthcare provider, Geisinger serves more than two million residents throughout central and northeastern Pennsylvania. The physician-led organization is at the forefront of the country's rapidly emerging electronic health records movement. Geisinger is comprised of three major regional medical centers, a 650-member group practice, a not-for-profit health insurance company, an alcohol and chemical dependency treatment facility, and the Center for Health Research—dedicated to creating innovative new models for patient care, satisfaction and clinical outcomes.  Visit www.geisinger.org for more information.

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