We would like to offer many thanks to those of you who took the time to complete our annual provider survey. The results are published in the annual Report Card sent to payor clients at the end of the year.

This year some of the more interesting comments included the value/importance of vendors for cost savings and a curious question asking why we don’t provide a toll free number. That number is, and has been for fifteen years: 800-664-5240. Obviously, we need to do a better job of communicating benefits of the network, no matter how small.

The number one concern? The escalating cost of running a practice, while experiencing lower reimbursement. Physician-owned practices are still of concern, as is retaining knowledgeable employees.

Most practice owners cite plans to create marketing strategies in preparation for consumer driven healthcare. These include wellness, and pain management programs which are cash-based.

If you would like a copy of the results of this survey, please contact Preferred at 800-664-5240, or by email