Health Net internal print magazine created by writer, editor, art director Linda Hubbard Lalande as part of an internal brand campaign that integrated print, intranet, email and HR materials. Feature writing, profiles, strategies and goals, accomplishments, editorial perspectives guided employees and gave context to company news. Designer: Moller Creative
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Health Net Connections Internal Brand Print Magazine #1
1. Quarterly Magazine for Health Net Associates • Fall-Winter 2006
Inside:
Health Net
Ramps Up
to Attract
Members
Regional plans roll
out innovative
solutions
The Making
of a Great
Place to Work
Cover Story:
THE ROOTS
of Health Net
A Year After Katrina
MHN is Still Aiding Recovery Efforts
National Provider Network
Management
2. Issue Highlights
The Roots of Health Net
Published by: Health Net, Inc.
Corporate Communications
21650 Oxnard Street
National Provider Network Management
Mail Code CA-102-22-07
page 3
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
We welcome your ideas and
We Live Here, Too feedback. Contact Linda Lalande
HNOR Rides the Cycling Craze in Portland or Margaret Longo at:
page 8 Connections@healthnet.com.
For internal distribution only
Health Net Ramps Up to Attract Members
Health Net, Inc. is among the
NE PA
nation’s largest publicly traded
OR Regional plans roll out innovative solutions
page 9
managed health care companies.
Its mission is to help people be
healthy, secure and comfortable.
For more information, go to
www.healthnet.com.
This publication contains forward-looking statements
Rolling Out an Array of Senior Products within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section
New plans, new geographies, new advertising 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, that
involve a number of risks and uncertainties. All
page 20 statements, other than statements of historical
information provided herein, may be deemed to
be forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned
The Making of a Great Place to Work not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking
statements. The company undertakes no obligation to
publicly revise these forward-looking statements to
Beginning our journey–and why it’s important reflect events or circumstances that arise after the
page 22 date of this publication.
Images of the Themes that Unite Us
Look for these icons to identify Health Net’s three important themes. The icons are used
in communications about what is going on in the company and how we are succeeding.
PERFORMANCE GROWTH GREAT PLACE TO WORK
Progress and achievements that Efforts to expand and increase Examples of a high-performance
support Health Net’s business the quality of Health Net’s environment that supports
strategy and financial goals business associates and serves
customers well
fall 2006 connections 4
3. GREAT PLACE TO WORK
Thanks for Making the Connections
Last quarter’s launch of Connections magazine began a partnership.
We asked for your readership, participation and feedback – and you
responded. Here’s what you said.
Did you like Connections? Your Voice: What you said you’d like to see in
Overwhelmingly, YES. “Finally, Connections is already shaping the magazine.
a way to get information that
doesn’t require a keyboard and
“Connections is telling me why Health Net is a quality
mouse… layout was clean, colorful… company for the customer. What are we doing to help
graphics were interesting and ourselves?” See page 22 –The Making of a Great Place
creative… articles were easy to to Work.
read and enjoyable… I can read this at my own pace on
“How about something fun included with all the
break or at home… it’s one more way to feel a part of
information?” See page 18 – HN Dollar
such a big organization.”
and page 25 – Earnings Lingo quiz.
Counterpoint: “Can’t we do this online?”
Like the difference between snapshots and a family “Some comparative stories across the business units?”
portrait – our HN Connect online “newspaper” reports See page 9 – Regional plans roll out innovative solutions.
current, time-sensitive news in an ever-changing format,
“Features on various departments within the company
while Connections takes a broader, enterprise perspective
and what they do to move us forward – how they affect
to show how we’re changing and advancing over time.
Connections also is proving to be a welcome source of or support other areas.” See page 3 – first in a series of
company information to many associates who don’t have department profiles.
time during their workday to access HN Connect on a “I want to feel more of a family atmosphere, to get to
regular basis. know more about the people and what they do.”
Did Connections help you become better informed? “More stories about and from associates, more faces
“I found the articles ‘got right to the point’ about what is of associates.” See page 19 – MHN and Katrina recovery,
going on with the company, and our goals, and how we are and refer to Associate Place weekly profiles on HN
working together to achieve them… some articles were a Connect.
little long… I’ve read some of the stories on HN Connect.”
Connections’ purpose is to provide context. At times it “Updates and changes in the health care industry.”
reinforces messages from HN Connect – and we work hard Look for industry perspectives in future issues and
to add a fresh viewpoint. see the Daily News Summary on the front page of
HN Connect for industry news.
We’re all ears. Keep reading and sending your
feedback– everyone benefits! “More about our benefits… like the 401(k) article.”
For an online copy of this magazine, live links to related stories and to submit See page 22 – The Making of a Great Place to Work,
ideas and feedback go to: HN Connect > Find It Fast > Newsletters > Connections. and future articles, as well as updates on HN Connect,
with details found in HR Link.
CONNECTIONS DEFINED “More about the programs that each region is a part
of in their communities.” See page 8 – HNOR Rides
Connections is a quarterly associate magazine that
the Cycling Craze in Portland.
showcases what Health Net does, how and why we
do it and who is making it happen. Stories focus on “More local events, updates on projects.” Look to
our Performance, Growth and Great Place to Work HN Connect for time-critical, events-based reporting
themes, and feature information and perspectives to and project updates.
help us work together, better serve our customers
and build a culture of performance.
fall-winter 2006 connections 1
4. What’s Health Net’s Business?
More than a claims processor, we help members get the best care
A message from Scott Law, chief network officer, Health Net, Inc. and Health Net of California.
Scenario: A Health Net member is diagnosed with a severe medical condition.
Faced with difficult decisions and in unfamiliar territory, how can Health Net best help this person
navigate through this challenging situation – and do so in a way that our assistance is welcomed,
and the member ultimately experiences a better outcome because we were involved?
Dealing with such situations is Health Net’s business. Health Net’s efforts to contract and maintain a robust
It’s not only our business – it’s what we want to be great at. network of qualified providers – and how they support the
Our goal is to excel at bringing members the right care, regional provider network organizations that do the heavy
at the right time, in the right place, for the right cost. lifting of actually recruiting the doctors and negotiating
That’s why we have made a conscious effort to link the contracts.
the care managed by Medical Management with the The next issue of Connections will focus on our Medical
delivery networks designed and maintained by Network Management team and how they are helping members
Management. We know that collaboration between get the most appropriate, cost-effective care in the right
these two important areas of our business is key to setting – including the products and new technology, such
establishing health care management as a central skill – as UNITY, that are making it easier for associates to better
a core competency – for Health Net. serve member needs.
We are making enormous strides and will be sharing Our business is about continuously improving health
more information with you in future communications. care access, choices and outcomes in an affordable way.
In this issue, our spotlight shines on the National Read on to learn how we’re working to achieve these
Provider Network Management group. This story explores fundamental goals that benefit our members, our local
the role National Provider Network Management plays in markets and Health Net’s overall performance.
Capturing Kindness at Health Net
Giving back to the communities we serve is all in a day’s work at Health Net. In December, Health
Net will host our company’s signature holiday event, Celebration of Children (CoC), in
six cities across the country.
Fifteen years ago, CoC began as the brainchild of Health Net Chairman Roger Greaves, his wife,
Erika, and a group of associates who decided they would rather give to kids than have holiday
office parties. Ensuring its success, Erika has continued hands-on involvement, nurturing the
colorful affair into a heartwarming company tradition that brightens the lives of thousands of youngsters.
Join the happy Health Net elves. Volunteers are needed for this year’s Celebration of Children. Give a toy,
give an hour to wrap gifts, give a morning during the events. Look for information from your local volunteer
coordinator and on HN Connect.
Reaching out in other ways? We recognize the generosity of associates is wide-ranging. Every year, Health
Net groups sponsor other charitable events during the holidays. To help us capture your kindness, please contact
Connections@healthnet.com as soon as you can – PRIOR to the event – to let us know how you are making a
difference in the communities we serve.
2 connections fall-winter 2006
5. PERFORMANCE
THE ROOTS of Health Net
National Provider Network Management
S
Seeding growth with tools to deliver: right care, right cost, right time, right place
o just what business is
Health Net in? Sounds like
a simple enough question;
after all, we are a managed
health care company – ergo –
we’re in the managed health
care business. True enough, but
that’s just a surface description.
Dig deeper, and it becomes
clear that we’re actually in the
business of delivering the right
care, at the right time, in the
right place, for the right cost.
And it’s through achievement
of this foursome that our
company experiences growth.
Health Net’s National Provider
Network Management (PNM)
team is a central member of the
team that drives company
growth. “The National PNM team
collaborates to support our 300
PNM associates, located across
the country, who are negotiating
and maintaining our provider
contracts for the continuum of services that our members need,” explains Scott Law,
chief network officer, Health Net, Inc. and Health Net of California.
“While contracting and maintaining robust networks of qualified providers is a cornerstone of our business,
the role of National PNM is to improve our core provider network management capabilities,” he says. Scott
recently has been asked to focus more intensely on building the PNM force in California. During this time,
Douglas Cowieson, vice president for National PNM, is assisting Scott with National PNM efforts.
Working with regional PNM staff, National PNM provides services, tools, processes and hands-on assistance.
“This support helps our PNM organization build more effective provider contracts,” says Scott, “in terms of
overall cost and the ability to administer, ensuring we have full control over what and how we pay.”
Editor’s Note: At press time, a new organizational structure for Provider Network Management was being announced.
However, Scott Law and Douglas Cowieson remain as named in this article. For details, see HN Connect.
fall-winter 2006 connections 3
6. National PNM’s role:
Central “trunk for regional “branches”
”
A few simple guiding principles apply to define the work
National PNM spearheads:
• Work that can be done more efficiently centrally, e.g., provider
communications and training.
• Work that requires a critical mass that cannot be achieved optimally
by an individual region, e.g., coordination of benefits data capture.
• Work that should have a corporate oversight, e.g., some audit
functions, such as contract review for conformity to required
standards.
By putting these principles into practice on behalf of the
PNM regional divisions, the National PNM management team
accomplishes the following:
• Develops processes and tools to better support associates, members
and providers.
• Designs and conducts training for both providers and the PNM
associates who serve them.
• Will implement a contract management system designed to
eventually track every provider contract – in total about 150,000
contracts.
• Provides the tools and mechanisms to analyze our own and our
competitors’ performance.
PNM works with many • Replaced regional provider surveys with a national survey to
departments within the
measure provider satisfaction and in response to results, helps
conceive, execute and monitor improvement programs.
organization to help achieve
• Tracks the costs of health care services in an effort to help keep
goals and to support Health
these costs in check. This extends to providing detailed information
on the latest government reimbursement requirements and analysis
Net’s growth and profitability.
of specific medical costs.
• Tracks and monitors the costs and charges associated with new
Some good examples of this
technology and implantable devices.
multi-faceted and broad
• Centrally contracts with vendors to develop networks and fee
schedules for areas of the country where we currently have no
work are outlined here.
major business. Thus, traveling Health Net members can still
receive timely and cost-effective care.
• Provides access to and analysis of coordination of benefits claims.
• Creates central purchasing reports and hospital analysis.
4 connections fall-winter 2006
7. Tools to nourish all PNM associates
It is National PNM’s role to ensure that associates that work with providers
have the information and tools needed to succeed in their jobs. Toward this
end, National PNM is developing a comprehensive training program for PNM
associates and providers. The training program, to be launched soon, will be a
highly usable, accessible and understandable tool designed to build specific skills.
National PNM additionally works to strengthen its connection with associates
by hosting meetings centering on topics chosen for their educational value.
“In 2007, we’ll host a biannual review of our initiatives in January and August,”
says Scott.
Cultivating provider partnerships invigorates member satisfaction
Research shows that member satisfaction is directly influenced by how
physicians feel about Health Net. “One of our goals is to be recognized by
providers and their staffs as a responsive business partner with whom it’s
easy to work,” says Scott.
National PNM centralized the regional survey process to better gauge
provider satisfaction. This annual survey and its results are now a central,
organization-wide tool that replaces regional survey efforts.
“Results from the first annual survey show that the vast majority of
doctors see their relationship with Health Net continuing on a long-term
basis,” says Scott. “They believe that Health Net is committed to working
in partnership with physicians to provide quality care – more so than other
plans – on a national level.”
“In response to the survey results,
“In response to the survey
results, we are ensuring the
we are ensuring the creation of quality
improvement plans throughout the
creation of quality improvement
regions,” says Douglas. “It’s a very exciting
plans throughout the regions…
time. We are able to target specific things
associates and the company can do
it’s a very exciting time. We
to increase provider satisfaction, which leads to greater member satisfaction
are able to target specific things
and builds Health Net’s reputation and enrollment.”
associates and the company
National PNM identified and is addressing three drivers of provider satisfaction:
1) Timely and accurate payment – National PNM is continually upgrading
can do to increase provider
technology to ensure that associates have the tools to be efficient.
satisfaction, which leads to
2) Ease of doing business – For our providers and their office staffs, as well
as for PNM associates, Health Net purchased software to build a learning
greater member satisfaction
management system to provide training that will make it easier to do
and builds Health Net’s
business with Health Net, mentioned above.
3) Relationships – PNM actively encourages open communication with
reputation and enrollment.”
providers, such as participation in fair contract negotiations, inclusiveness
Douglas Cowieson, vp, National PNM
in decision-making processes and responsiveness to provider requests.
Detailed survey results are available on the HN Connect Provider Network Management page.
fall-winter 2006 connections 5
8. Competitive Intelligence
Harvesting information for fruitful planning
The foundation of solid planning is
competitive intelligence. Recognizing
this, National PNM created a program
to gather competitive information and
share it with the regions and Health
Net leadership.
“Providing competitive intelligence
enables us to be data-driven when
developing strategies and continuous
quality improvement measures,” says
Kristina Rodriguez, director, National
PNM. “With tools and information
gathered through competitive intelligence, we are Says Kristina, “Our ability to compare a competitor’s
better able to pinpoint where we are effective, how network to Health Net’s current provider network is vital
we compare to others in the industry and how we to allow us to be truly focused in our network growth
can improve.” and development efforts. Using a program through a
For example, National PNM reviewed Health Net’s vendor, Strenuus, we are able to compare our networks
provider Web portal and compared it to competitors. to competitors at a detailed provider level. This valuable
Kristina explains, “We found that providers really wanted information enables our regional PNM associates to identify
the ability to obtain prior authorization within our portal. where our current and future members can benefit from
As a result, we are now making this capability available. additional network building and improve our network
We learned of other areas where we can capitalize on access. This can be the deal clincher if we can show a
our strengths and where we need to shore up weaknesses prospective client that we can better serve their member-
on the functionality of our Web site.” ship or identify where member care will transfer to if the
client chooses Health Net.”
Sowing the seeds of affordable access
Cutting costs for consumers and the company
An exciting National PNM initiative under way is a project poised to produce significant financial savings for Health Net.
Specifically, PNM’s vendor – Multiplan – is building an out-of-network (ONET) funnel that will be a dynamic single point
of transfer for claims that come in categorized as ONET. When this project is completed later this year, claims from
non-participating providers can be routed through a funnel or hierarchy of leased networks.
Consider this example: A Health Net member visits a provider and then the provider bills us. Initially, the provider is
determined to be out-of-network. By then tapping into the ONET funnel technology, we launch a search to uncover if
a contract discount may be available through our leased network arrangements. Quite often, a relationship is uncovered
that allows us to pay a negotiated rate, rather than paying full billed charges. The goal, wherever possible, is to pay
claims at negotiated rates. “Given that our company-wide out-of-network expense is substantial, the savings opportunity
that this provides obviously makes this is a priority,” Scott notes.
Another PNM cost-saving initiative that is being developed ensures that we always take advantage of a directly
contracted Health Net participating provider discount for services received outside the region where the member is
enrolled.
Here’s how it works: PNM contractors add into agreements “affiliate language” indicating that the doctor or hospital
will honor the same rates for a member affiliated with a Health Net plan from outside their region. For instance, a
Connecticut member who visits a California Health Net provider would receive a participating provider discount, just
as if they had received care from a participating provider in their home state.
6 connections fall-winter 2006
9. Contract Management System
working into the future
In 2007, the National PNM team will be
configuring a new tool to permit us to store,
amend, standardize and report on all provider
contracts within the company. This new tool,
i-Many Contract Management System, will
give Health Net:
• A potent disaster recovery program for all of
our contracts.
• A single repository for contracts accessible
anywhere in the country.
• Standard contract terms and approved
variables from templates available online.
• Managed limits of authority to ensure
contracts are negotiated and signed
according to Health Net requirements.
• A single point of entry for contract terms
and rates.
• Approvals and reviews sent via a single,
trackable workflow process.
• Simple e-mail routing of edits, amendments,
suggestions and attachments within Health
Net and externally to our providers.
• Role and security-based access to all aspects
of our contracts.
The development of this new and important
tool will commence with Strategic Sourcing by
year-end, then moves into a pilot project in
New Jersey PNM in early 2007, before unfolding company-wide. “To ensure we deliver the ideal product for all
associates, I’m heading a steering committee to oversee the system’s direction and content,” says Bill Lamoreaux,
chief operations officer, Health Net of the Northeast. “This efficient new system will improve our workflow,
accuracy and service in a way that will make it easier for providers to do business with us, and easier for associates
to do their jobs.”
The power of PNM
Clearly, National PNM plays a pivotal role – one that extends far beyond contracting – in fueling
the engine that helps drive Health Net’s growth. From surveying providers to collecting competitive
intelligence and keeping company costs in check, National PNM is among the fundamental forces
that keep Health Net in the business of delivering the right care, at the right
time, in the right place, and for the right cost.
fall-winter 2006 connections 7
10. GREAT PLACE TO WORK
We Live Here, Too
HNOR Rides the Cycling Craze in Portland
As Bicycling magazine’s best city for cycling in North America, Portland, Ore., offers
countless occasions for cycling enthusiasts to enjoy the sport. The Rose City also is the
hub of business for Health Net of Oregon (HNOR), headquartered just outside Portland
in Tigard. Working to be known as a leading local health plan, HNOR is tapping into
the community’s passions. The cycling scene is a natural fit.
For the past two years, HNOR has sponsored one of the city’s annual bike races,
the Portland Twilight Criterium. As part of this effort, HNOR also sponsors Team
Health Net, America’s top cycling team. For its part, Team Health Net makes it
a priority to visit various Health Net offices and events around the nation.
“Oregonians are passionate about cycling and the healthy lifestyle that
accompanies the sport. The Criterium is a great way to be part of an important
community event and to reach active people,” says Matt Gougler, manager, HNOR Marketing.
ers
itt
On Aug. 11, 2006, thousands of spectators jammed the streets as several city blocks were
Gr
le
transformed into a virtual velodrome as cyclists took to the pavement for two fast-paced,
Ky
60-minute sprints. Team Health Net’s Garrett Peltonen placed first in the race, with other
Team Health Net cyclists right behind in second, third and fourth place.
For Health Net, sponsorship is more than banners and signage;
it’s also an opportunity to involve associates and members in the action.
Free helmets for kids
Children and parents rallied to receive free bicycle helmets as part of HNOR’s Heads Up! Bicycle
Safety Program. HNOR associate volunteers fit 175 children with the brightly colored helmets,
complete with a Health Net reflective sticker. “We want Portland’s children to enjoy a safe
bicycle ride this summer,” said Camille Cadran, HNOR volunteer and Quality Improvement
manager. (Pictured right.)
Camille Cadran, manager, Quality
Improvement, fits an excited
little boy with a free Health
Bird’s eye view for business partners Net bike helmet.
On the day of the big race, HNOR’s business partners gathered
on the veranda of the Oregon Historical Society, one of the course’s
prime viewing areas. HNOR treated local brokers, employer groups
and community contacts to a reception that included a visit by
Team Health Net.
The race offered a unique opportunity to build relationships
Sweeping the Criterium: Team Health Net
with business contacts in a relaxed environment where Health Net
rider Karl Menzies took 4th place after was prominently featured. “Oregon is an extremely competitive
teammates Garrett Peltonen (1st), Kyle marketplace and the Criterium was a way for us to raise Health
Gritters (2nd) and Greg Henderson (3rd). Net’s profile and show appreciation for our local partners,” says Janice Finley, manager,
Cindy Fineran, vice president, HNOR Sales. Finance, buckles a girl’s free
Health Net bike helmet.
For more information: http://www.teamhealthnet.com/news/2006/HNCriterium.html
8 connections fall-winter 2006 summer 2006 connections 12
11. GROWTH N
Health Net Ramps Up
OR
to Attract Members
Regional plans roll out innovative solutions
While America is a nation of 50 united states, each member of this union
is unique from a market perspective. It only makes sense, then, that our
union of health plans – Health Net of Arizona, Health Net of California,
Health Net of the Northeast and Health Net of Oregon – must develop
strategies and products designed to dovetail with the unique needs of their
NE
OR
local markets. As you will see on the pages that follow, each has done just
that; and while their approaches vary, each plan shares the common goal
OR
of increasing commercial growth.
Health Net also continues to focus on the growth of our other revenue-
generating lines of business, such as Medicare, Medicaid, MHN, Pharmacy
and Health Net Federal Services (HNFS). Look for upcoming coverage in
subsequent issues of Connections.
NE
How the Regions Stack Up OR
Medical Membership
(as of September 30, 2006) Premium Revenues (in thousands)
includes Commercial/ASO, Medicare and Medicaid (as of third quarter 2006)
California
Total Premium Revenues $1,647,806
Total Medical Membership $3,249,478
3,384,719 51%
Other: MHN,
HNFS and
California Senior Products
Oregon
2,298,160 $698,331
$145,823
68% 21%
5%
Oregon Arizona
Northeast 154,875 Northeast
Arizona $162,524
776,836 154,848 5% $594,994
5%
23% 5% 18%
Editor’s Note: Health Net’s HMO, POS, insured PPO and government contracts subsidiaries provide health benefits to more than 6 million individuals in 27 states
and the District of Columbia through group, individual, Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE and Veterans Affairs programs. Health Net’s behavioral health services
subsidiary, MHN, provides behavioral health, substance abuse and employee assistance programs (EAPs) to approximately 7.3 million individuals in various states,
including the company’s own health plan members. Health Net’s subsidiaries also offer managed health care products related to prescription drugs, and offer
managed health care product coordination for multi-region employers and administrative services for medical groups and self-funded benefits programs.
fall-winter 2006 connections 9
12. HEAL NET of OREGON (HNOR)
TH
NE PA
OR
Originally founded in 1938 as PACC Health Plans,
HNOR is today among the Pacific Northwest’s
leading health plans, with one of the region’s
strongest and most extensive health care
networks.
Commercial Market Strategy HNOR Medical Membership
HNOR is entering the second year of a two-year (as of September 30, 2006) includes
strategy to break into the Individual market. The Commercial/ASO, Medicare and Medicaid
primary target is young families in the Portland area 154,875 = 5%
of Health Net total
(population 1.7 million).
In addition, Individual and Family Plan (IFP) products will
be marketed statewide through a television campaign and
direct mail this winter targeting brokers, rural residents
and early retirees. Because online shopping is so popular in
Oregon, IFP products are sold through eHealth Insurance,
which generates 20 to 45 percent of HNOR’s monthly
applications – a unique situation in Health Net.
Beyond good service, to attract new business HNOR
relies on a broad network and value-added options, such HNOR Premium
as extensive wellness program offerings, Decision Power, Revenues
(in thousands) as of Q3 2006
Successes
Web tools, and a new dental and vision package.
$145,823 = 5% of
Health Net total
HNOR successfully expanded its commercial business statewide and into
HNOR in the market
Washington State in 2005. IFP is launching statewide in Oregon this winter.
HNOR provides group, individual and Medicare health plans, including PPO, HMO,
POS and traditional indemnity plans, as well as the region’s first Medicare Advantage
PPO. HNOR offers alternative care (chiropractic, acupuncture, naturopathic medicine
and massage therapy) as a core benefit in group and IFP. HNOR also offers group
prescription drug, vision and dental coverage.
HNOR is entering the second year of a successful two-year
strategy to break into the Individual market. The primary
target is young families in the Portland area (population
1.7 million). Online shopping is popular with this crowd,
generating 20 to 45 percent of HNOR’s monthly IFP
applications.
10 connections fall-winter 2006
13. SALES ENVIRONMENT HEADQUARTERS
Tigard, Ore.
Sales Network: 622 appointed independent brokers
300 associates
Major competitors: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oregon,
Kaiser, Providence Health Plans, LifeWise
ENROLLMENT
Competitive Landscape: PPO is a very popular option in
Oregon, with 79 percent of HNOR’s membership in PPO 154,875 medical members in
plans. This market is extremely competitive, with eight Oregon and Washington State
carriers fighting for commercial membership as of September 30, 2006
New or enhanced releases:
LEADERSHIP
Stephen Lynch, president,
IFP Plans Regional Health Plans
• Dental & Vision Plan Option – A unique combined $30 rider Chris Ellertson, regional health
members can easily add to their IFP. It’s in demand, and plan officer
competitors offer one or the other, but not both.
• Gemstone Portfolio – Introduced in fall 2005 (Pearl 25 HMO,
Diamond 15, Emerald 40, Garnet 50, Crystal HDHP). This IFP PHYSICIAN NETWORK
portfolio offers a wide range of HMO and PPO options and is
aggressively priced to draw new IFP members and migrate 23,000 physicians
existing members.
• Topaz First Dollar – For fall 2006, this competitively priced
package features alternative care services and an immediate
spending account of $250 – before the deductible applies –
for chiropractic, acupuncture, massage therapy, naturopathy FA C I L I T I E S N E T W O R K
and preventive care.
135 hospitals
Commercial Plans
1,608 retail chain and
• Rx Plus – Four pharmacy plans being introduced to groups of
independent pharmacies
51+. Rx Plus’ primary selling point is that its plans have a
“lighter” or less stringent prior-authorization requirement,
for which a 10 percent additional premium will be charged.
• PPO Fifty Plans – Targeted toward small groups, this is an C U S T O M E R S E R V I C E S TAT S
employer’s most affordable option. These plans offer a
simple design coupled with an affordable price and
feature 50 percent cost share on all eligible services, On average, processes more than
with no deductible for in- or out-of-network services. 4,500 claims and responds to
The plans pay 100 percent of catastrophic expenses 1,500 calls per day
after the out-of-pocket maximum is reached.
fall-winter 2006 connections 11
14. HEAL NET of CALIFORNIA (HNCA)
TH
Health Net’s largest health plan, HNCA is one of the
largest network-model health plans in California. Health
Net’s unique California model of organized care delivery
drives physician behavior and allows for coherent
management of care, quality and resources.
HNCA Medical Membership
Commercial Market Strategy
(as of September 30, 2006) includes
Commercial/ASO, Medicare and Medicaid
2,298,160 = 68% of
Attracting smaller businesses (2 - 250 employees) is a top Health Net total
goal, along with building the PPO network and increasing
the number of PPO members. HNCA is focused on:
• Retaining membership in organized care delivery.
• Developing products emphasizing patient choice: Health
Savings Accounts (HSA) banking arrangements and
consumer directed/organized care.
NE
• Building broker relationships.
OR Successes
• Continuing targeted advertising.
PA
After several years of commercial membership losses, HNCA HNCA Premium
has seen a return to growth in Small Group, Mid-Market and Revenues
(in thousands) as of Q3 2006
Individual and Family Plans (IFP), since the end of 2005, both
$1,647,806 = 51% of
organically and due to the Universal Care acquisition.
Health Net total
• IFP is up 14 percent to nearly 92,000 members.
• Small Business Group is up 12 percent to nearly 320,000.
• Mid-Market is up 9 percent to just over 404,000 members.
• Commercial, POS and Medicare lines of business received NCQA
“Excellent” accreditation status.
After several years of commercial membership losses,
HNCA has seen a return to growth in Small Group,
Mid-Market and Individual and Family Plans (IFP),
since the end of 2005, both organically and due to
the Universal Care acquisition.
12 connections fall-winter 2006
15. SALES ENVIRONMENT HEADQUARTERS
Woodland Hills, Calif.
Sales Network: 10,000 appointed independent brokers
and agents; 8,500 have business placed with HNCA More than 2,700 associates
in 17 locations throughout
Major competitors: Blue Cross of California, Kaiser, California
Blue Shield of California, PacifiCare/United Health Care,
Aetna, Cigna ENROLLMENT
Competitive Landscape: While the majority of 2,298,160 medical members
California businesses are small (2 - 250 employees), a as of September 30, 2006
significant number of people are employed by mid-sized
and large companies. Both HMO and PPO health care
costs in California are significantly lower than in most
other parts of the country. This attracts employers as a LEADERSHIP
good value, even with the state’s higher housing costs.
HNCA is the state’s fourth largest health plan Stephen Lynch, president, Regional
Health Plans
Patricia Clarey, chief operating
HNCA in the market
officer, HNCA
HNCA offers coverage for vision, dental, life insurance*,
chiropractic and alternative medicine; HMO, POS, PPO, PHYSICIAN NETWORK
Medicare, Healthy Families and Medi-Cal plans in the individual
and family, senior, small (2 - 50), mid-market (51+ distributed 51,000 physicians
by brokers) and large group (those groups represented by
New or enhanced releases:
consultants, including Labor & Trust) markets.
• Small Business Group (SBG) – In May 2006, launched four FA C I L I T I E S N E T W O R K
new benefit plans - HMO 10, HMO 30, PPO 25 and PPO 35 –
resulting in 7,750 new members for SBG – an increase of 300 PPO hospitals
2.3 percent. 260 HMO hospitals
• EZAccess HSA – Introduced in July, connects an HSA plan with 5,000 retail chain and
a Wells Fargo HSA account via a debit card. Allows members independent pharmacies
to take control of their health care purchases with a savings
account they own and control. Builds on existing HSA plan
membership, which has grown 183 percent since the begin- C U S T O M E R S E R V I C E S TAT S
ning of the year, and now totals more than 9,000 members.
• HMO Silver Network – In 2005, created a select network On average, processes 20,000
of cost-efficient providers. Enables employers to reduce claims and responds to 25,000
premiums by 8 to 15 percent. Concept continues to build calls each day
sales momentum, as membership has grown to nearly
11,000, a 108 percent increase since the beginning of 2006.
* Offered by HN Life Insurance Company and administered by
Health Net of California.
fall-winter 2006 connections 13
16. HEAL NET of ARIZONA (HNAZ)
TH
Celebrating 26 years of meeting Arizonans’
health plan needs, HNAZ has been ranked the
No. 1 HMO for two years running by Ranking
Arizona magazine.
Commercial Market Strategy
HNAZ Medical Membership
(as of September 30, 2006) includes
Commercial/ASO, Medicare and Medicaid
Overcoming a lack of name recognition and other market 154,848 = 5%
challenges, HNAZ is in the second year of an effective three- Health Net total
year period of recovery, organized around a strategy dubbed
“Raising Arizona.” Committed to being innovative and offering
a comprehensive product menu, HNAZ recognizes that
maintaining a stable cost and pricing position is critical.
To support growth, HNAZ is:
• Making a significant investment in targeted marketing and
advertising.
NE
• Keeping expenses in check.
• Meeting membership goals. HNAZ Premium
PA
• Improving contracting and network medical management,
products and services.
Revenues
(in thousands) as of Q3 2006
$162,524 = 5%
• Segmenting the group market to identify areas that offer Health Net total
the greatest opportunity for growth.
• Focusing sales and marketing efforts on the brokerage community as it
Successes
controls more than 95 percent of targeted business.
HNAZ has:
• Undertaken significant community outreach efforts that are effectively building brand
recognition.
• Attained price stability and offers a portfolio of products that meet consumer needs.
• Been rewarded with recaptured business due to discipline and operational improvements
over the past two years, such as claims payment accuracy and timeliness.
• Implemented UNITY, a software program that tracks Medical Management results.
• Achieved an “Excellent” accreditation rating from NCQA.
HNAZ is in the second year of an effective three-year period of
recovery, organized around a strategy dubbed “Raising Arizona.”
With more than 95 percent of desired business controlled by the
brokerage community, the focus is on capturing this audience as
a means to gaining membership.
14 connections fall-winter 2006
17. SALES ENVIRONMENT HEADQUARTERS
Tempe, Ariz.
Sales Network: 3,000 appointed independent brokers
300 associates in Tempe and Tucson.
Major competitors: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, Operations (claims, membership,
Humana, LifeWise, Aetna, Cigna, United member and provider calls, etc.)
are handled out of the Shelton,
Competitive Landscape: Arizona, with two major Conn., office by 250 associates
metropolitan centers – Phoenix and Tucson – is America’s
second fastest growing state. It is home to a large,
underserved population, as fully one-third of Arizona’s ENROLLMENT
residents are either uninsured or on Medicaid. HNAZ is
the state’s fourth largest health plan 154,848 medical members
as of September 30, 2006
HNAZ in the market
LEADERSHIP
HNAZ offers coverage for vision, dental, life insurance*, Stephen Lynch, president,
chiropractic and alternative medicine; Individual and Family Regional Health Plans
(HMO and PPO); Employer-sponsored Plans (HMO, PPO, POS Mark El Tawil, president, HNAZ
Plus and Indemnity); Medicare Advantage HMO; Medicare
Supplements; Multiple Option and National Provider Network
PHYSICIAN NETWORK
New or enhanced releases:
access for PPO and POS Plus products.
5,673 physicians
• Empowerment for a Healthier Life Style HMO and PPO plans:
Includes Decision Power SM to help members be informed and
confident in their medical care decisions; and It’s Your Life to
help members deal with personal or family challenges.
• High-Deductible Health Savings Account-compatible PPO: FA C I L I T I E S N E T W O R K
With lower premiums, tax benefits and control over health
care dollars, this product is designed to appeal to a variety of 57 hospitals
health care consumers. 1,000 retail chain and
• Broker tool kit: Created as part of an initiative to strengthen independent pharmacies
broker communications and to make doing business with
Health Net easier, this kit includes a CD loaded with forms,
collateral, streamlined underwriting guidelines and other
useful tools, including a handy palm-sized tool kit that C U S T O M E R S E R V I C E S TAT S
brokers can keep in their glove boxes.
• eHealth online search tool: In an effort to increase its On average, processes 5,000-
opportunity for selection, HNAZ contracted with eHealth 6,000 claims per day and
to obtain priority placement in search results for Individual responds to more than
and Family Plan shoppers. 2,000 calls each day
*Offered by Health Net Life Insurance Company and administered by
Health Net of Arizona.
fall-winter 2006 connections 15
18. HEAL NET of the NORTHEAST (HNNE)
TH
NE For the past 30 years, HNNE – one of the
PA
largest health plans in the Northeast –
has offered a wide array of full-service
health plans in the tri-state area.
Commercial Market Strategy
HNNE Medical Membership
(as of September 30, 2006) includes
Commercial/ASO, Medicare and Medicaid
Facing intense competition, HNNE’s goal is to become a 776,836 = 23%
leading local health plan with an overall emphasis to execute Health Net total
a “customer solutions” strategy.
HNNE returned to profitability and renewed growth in 2005
and 2006 through brand investment, an updated product portfolio,
accurate pricing and leaner plan designs with lower price points
and by focusing on fruitful geographies.
Small and mid-size businesses remain the primary commercial
targets in all three states, along with Medicare in Connecticut
and New York. In New York, the focus is to build on momentum
and return to growth. In New Jersey, the task is to achieve a
competitive cost structure and return to growth. HNNE Premium
Revenues
To grow enrollment, HNNE is introducing an array of new, (in thousands) as of Q3 2006
highly competitive products and providing enhanced benefits $594,994 = 18%
to members. Consumer-driven health plans also are in the mix, Health Net total
Winning Priorities
along with enhancing self-insured product capabilities.
HNNE is successfully executing a multiple-year improvement plan by employing
five winning priorities:
1. Achieve profitable growth through execution of superior “customer solutions” strategies.
2. Deliver excellent service to customers, providers, regulators and to each other.
3. Achieve competitive health costs.
4. Deliver the analytics that drive insightful business decisions.
Successes
5. Establish HNNE as a great place to work.
• Re-establishing gross margins in the business, a basis for stability and long-term growth.
• Retaining customers, a sign of improved enrollment stability.
• Recontracting with all hospitals and improving health care costs versus the competition.
• Launching new products such as the integrated Health Savings Account (HSA) with
Wells Fargo.
• Growing membership in target segments.
• Achieved an “Excellent” accreditation rating from NCQA and was awarded “Quality Plus
Distinction” in NCQA’s Member Connections rating category for effectively engaging
members in their own care, especially via the Web.
16 connections fall-winter 2006
19. SALES ENVIRONMENT HEADQUARTERS
Shelton, Conn., for business
Sales Network: 3,400 appointed independent brokers
conducted in Connecticut,
and agents and 1,600 agencies
New Jersey and New York.
Major competitors: Approximately 1,800 associates
Connecticut: WellPoint (Anthem); in five locations in Connecticut,
Oxford/UnitedHealthcare; ConnectiCare New Jersey, and New York
New Jersey: Oxford/UnitedHealthcare; Aetna; Horizon
Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey ENROLLMENT
New York: Oxford/UnitedHealthcare; Aetna; WellPoint
(Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield of New York) 776,836 medical members
as of September 30, 2006
Competitive Landscape: In the New York market, Connecticut 368,900
HNNE’s focus is on small businesses. In New Jersey, New York 239,547
both small- and mid-size businesses are prevalent. New Jersey 168,389
In Connecticut, mid-size businesses have been the
primary target, but now attention is being turned to
LEADERSHIP
the small-business market as well
Steve Nelson, president, HNNE
HNNE in the market
Bill Lamoreaux, chief operations
officer, HNNE
The Northeast health plans offer HMO, POS, PPO and self-
insured options to local and multi-region employers with small,
mid-sized and large businesses, and Medicare and Medicaid for
New or enhanced releases:
individuals, families and seniors. PHYSICIAN NETWORK
80,000 physician and professional
• Outlook - Portfolio of preferred plans characterized by higher providers representing more than
member cost sharing, stringent underwriting guidelines and 150,000 office locations
competitive pricing that provide solid, basic coverage at
extremely attractive price points. Launched EPO and POS
plans for small group in New York and will add for re-entry FA C I L I T I E S N E T W O R K
into New Jersey and update of products in Connecticut.
250 hospitals
• HSA - Implemented for small group in Connecticut and New
York. Expanded portfolio of consumer-directed plans and offers 5,500 retail chain and
low-cost alternative for employers. An HSA debit card also was independent pharmacies
instituted across the tri-state middle-market segment.
• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) - Integrated HRA
product in the tri-state region that will allow HNNE to better
C U S T O M E R S E R V I C E S TAT S
compete with major market players. To be launched first
quarter of 2007.
On average, processes 40,000
claims per day; responds to
HNNE returned to profitability and renewed growth 10,000 phone calls per day
in 2005 and 2006 through brand investment, an
updated product portfolio, accurate pricing and
leaner plan designs with lower price points and
by focusing on fruitful geographies.
fall-winter 2006 connections 17
20. PERFORMANCE
Debunking the myth of
Health Insurance Company Profits
People perceive health care profits to be 51 percent of skyrocketing costs.
Fact is, profits are only 3 percent.
ccording to a recent study conducted by Public Opinion Strategies, consumers believe the profits of health
A insurance and pharmaceutical companies are a main factor driving increases in health care costs. A survey of
800 adults revealed that Americans estimated typical health insurance company profits at a whopping 51 percent
of health care spending – a gross misperception.
The truth, as illustrated below, is that health insurance industry profit is only 3 percent; that’s 3 cents on the dollar.
Health Net is working to bust the 51 percent myth by partnering with America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) to
educate decision makers and the public about the realities of rising health care costs, and by doing our part to stem
the tide of rising costs with innovative solutions.
Profit
Where Does 1 Dollar of a Health Net
Selling costs
Member’s Premium Go?
The answer is, Health Net* spends 85 cents of each G&A
premium dollar on patient medical care. Only 3 cents (cost of running the company)
is company profit. Ancillary Services
Drugs
38¢ Hospital 33¢ Physicians 10¢ 4¢ 10¢ 2 3¢
85¢ 12¢ 3¢
Member health care costs SG & A Profit
costs
* Health Net is in line with benchmarks in the industry based on a PricewaterhouseCoopers’ analysis for AHIP, Factors Fueling Rising Healthcare Costs 2006.
18 connections fall-winter 2006
21. mhn still aiding recovery efforts
After the killer storm struck America’s Gulf Coast,
the U.S. Navy relied on the ready resources of
Health Net’s behavioral health division, MHN
T rying not to panic her two preschoolers, the
young mother hurriedly loaded her mini-van with
bare essentials – clothes, blankets, water, a family
photo album. It was Aug. 29th of last year, and Hurricane
Katrina was barreling toward the Biloxi home that she
and her husband – a petty officer in the U.S. Navy – had
Actual MHNGS cases
purchased just weeks before he shipped out to Iraq. Recently MHNGS’ Gulf Coast team shared some actual
cases they encountered post-Katrina. Here are just two
When the young mom returned days later, she
of their many stories:
discovered that Katrina had devoured their home.
She wasn’t alone. In fact, hundreds of Navy families • Just months after losing his house to Katrina, this
A Year After Katrina
had to simultaneously contend with the uncertainty
that looms when a loved one is at war coupled with
the overwhelming devastation brought to the southern
MHNGS client lost his wife to a terminal illness. Adding
further stress was the fact that his wife passed away
out of town, but was buried locally. Tracking down her
MHN Still Aiding Recovery Efforts
U.S. by three hurricanes, Katrina (August), Rita (September) death certificate – which the man urgently needed for
and Wilma (October). Fortunately, they had somewhere her life insurance policy and to apply for financial aid to
to turn: Health Net’s Managed Health Network rebuild his house – thus became a significant challenge
Government Services (MHNGS). that only added to the man’s psychological and
Navy turns to MHNGS financial stress. Although it wasn’t part of her job,
The Navy, which has installations throughout the hard an MHNGS case manager ran interference and quickly
hit Gulf Coast region, quickly realized that its internal solved the problem. She also referred the man to a
resource – called Fleet and Family Service Centers – grief counselor and continues to monitor his progress.
couldn’t alone respond to the massive need left in
Katrina’s wake. The Navy turned to MHNGS. • For this MHNGS client – a 26-year-old marine – Katrina
left him with both an aching heart and a bulging
And MHNGS, which operates under a Department of
waistline. His heart ache stemmed from separation.
Defense subcontract, readily responded. In short order,
MHNGS initially dispatched 25 clinicians and financial The storm shredded the house he shared with his
counselors to installations throughout the Gulf Coast, wife; until they could rebuild, he had to live on base,
Florida and Tennessee (many hurricane victims were and she with her parents some distance away. The
evacuated to the latter). combined stress of Katrina’s devastation and his
wife’s absence led the marine to munch more than
“This team of associates is still working with the Navy
usual. In fact, he packed on enough pounds to threaten
in the Gulf Coast, and will continue to do so through
his continued enlistment. A skilled MHNGS clinician
the end of the year,” explains Elaine Shelub, manager,
armed the young man with an arsenal of stress-
MHNGS. These associates’ hard work hasn’t gone
unnoticed. “Directors of the Fleet and Family Service reduction techniques that enabled him to cope
Centers have repeatedly commented what an outstanding while simultaneously cutting calories.
job our people have done, particularly in relation to
outreach and being a great source for referrals.”
Clients can take comfort
While it will likely take years for the battered Gulf
Coast to completely rebound, at least those hurricane
victims who are MHNGS clients can take comfort in See HN Connect for an update on the Health Net associate who lived
knowing that caring clinicians and counselors stand through the storm, Karen Williams, MHNGS victim advocate in
ready to serve. Gulfport, Miss., and more MHNGS case stories from the recovery zone.
fall-winter 2006 connections 19
22. GROWTH
Rolling Out an Array of Senior Products:
New plans, new geographies, new advertising
A perspective from Sam Srivastava, chief senior products officer
Our continuing strategy is ‘Simplicity is the pathway to trust’... meaning, if we can make
it simple for seniors where no one else can, we will build their trust in us and encourage
them to consider Health Net. We are taking the consultative approach – let us help you
understand what you have today, how our plans compare, and let us do it in a way that
best meets your needs – at a group seminar, over the phone, or we’ll even come to your
house if you’d like, in our core markets.
For 2007 and beyond, Health Net will expand its markets and, based on our success
in Arizona, plans to develop more retail storefronts in California, Oregon, New York and
Connecticut. We’ve enhanced and streamlined our products with revised and improved
collateral that is color-coded and easy to understand. We’re introducing new fall advertising
to boost name recognition and generate qualified leads that will drive sales.
Color-coded plans make it simple
Available in all 50 states and Arizona, California,
the District of Columbia Oregon
Orange - Stand-alone Prescription Brown - Medical Coverage
Drug Plan features generic and brand- Medicare Supplement Plan with
name drugs. There are three plans to a slightly higher premium than
choose from; two of the plans offered other plans in exchange for the
come without a deductible so that convenience of not having to pay
members are covered from their very charges when you visit the doctor
first prescription, and one plan offers and the freedom to see any doctor
generic drug coverage with no “doughnut who accepts Medicare.
hole” gap.
Oregon, Washington State Arizona, California,
Aqua - Medical-only Plan that gives Connecticut, New York
members the freedom to see any doctor Amber - Medical and Drug
nationwide who accepts Medicare. Coverage Plan for Medicare/Medicaid
dual-eligible individuals who
qualify under the government’s
financial guidelines; features costs
that may be greatly reduced or even
eliminated.
20 connections fall-winter 2006
23. Arizona, California, Arizona, California,
Connecticut, New York Connecticut, New York
Green - Comprehensive HMO Medical Ruby - HMO with combined
Plan with a $0 monthly plan premium medical and drug coverage.
and minimal copayments for doctor
visits and other services.
Connecticut Arizona
Navy - Medical and Prescription Drug Sage - Medical and Drug Plan
Plan with affordable copayments for with automatic enrollment into
in-network services; for a higher cost, our disease management program
allows subscribers to see physicians for members with coronary artery
outside Health Net’s network who disease or high cholesterol, at no
accept Medicare. extra cost.
California, Connecticut, Arizona, California,
Hawaii, New Mexico, New Oregon, Washington State
York, Texas, Washington State Violet - Combines medical
Pearl - Our newest offering, a Private and drug coverage with simple
Fee-for-Service Medical Plan that gives copayments for doctor and
members the freedom to see any hospital visits, no matter which
doctor who accepts Medicare. Only doctor you see.
Connecticut has an option that also
includes drugs for a higher premium.
Why nearly half-a-million people already have chosen Health Net Medicare plans.
— Excerpted from the new Medicare Collateral
“We tailor “We show
our services “We make you what “We give you
understanding your costs may “We strive for
to Medicare Decision
our plans easy.” be before you the highest
beneficiaries Power SM.”
quality care
like you.” sign up.” possible.”
fall-winter 2006 connections 21
24. The Making of a
Great Place to Work
Beginning our journey –
and why it’s important.
Thanks to you, Health Net is building a better company.
Our solid performance and budding growth prove it.
Now, we’ve set our sights even higher. Jay Gellert,
president and chief executive officer, stated as much
with the launch of this year’s associate survey, saying,
“Becoming better is important. Becoming great is our
goal.” We want to become a great company – and a
Great Place to Work.
“These two goals are very interconnected,” says Karin
Mayhew, senior vice president, Organization Effectiveness
for Health Net. The proof: “The companies that earn a place
on Fortune magazine’s ‘100 Best Companies to Work for
How are we making Health Net a Great Place
in America’ consistently outperform their competitors.” 1
to Work?
Research aside, it seems obvious that the way people “It begins with our attitude – we must be willing to
are treated makes a difference in how they perform. It’s exchange ideas, and not be afraid to ‘show our work’
not surprising then, that studies have shown that over and share honest evaluations of what we are striving
time, companies appearing on the “100 Best Places to to accomplish,” says Karin. “We need to be willing to
Work” have competitive advantages. examine and identify where we are now – and see how
What are these competitive advantages? it matches up to where we need to go.”
Besides being a place employees look forward to going “Remember,” notes Jay, “becoming great is a journey
every day, being a Great Place to Work has a host of that all of us at Health Net are undertaking to achieve
up sides: the goal we’ve agreed upon: to be a great company that
• more qualified people want to work there supports associates and serves customers well. We’ve
• lower turnover begun, but we aren’t there yet. My personal goal is that
we won’t have to ask ‘are we there yet?’ for long – the
• higher levels of customer satisfaction and customer loyalty
results will speak for themselves.”
• greater innovation, creativity and risk taking
Here are just a few examples of what Health
• higher productivity, and
Net is doing to build a Great Place to Work.
• reduced health care costs Focus on people: We pay for performance, and we
What makes a Great Place to Work? single out examples of outstanding associates and
“At the heart of it is creating a work environment praise their good work.
where associates trust the people they work for, have • Examples: The Heart & Soul Recognition Awards
pride in what they do and enjoy the people they work program; SPOT Awards; HNFS STAR Program;
with,” explains Karin. Associate Place features on HN Connect; Service
The common theme: quality relationships ... relationships Anniversary Awards; and numerous other department
between associates and management … between associates and business unit recognition programs that let
and their jobs … and among associates themselves. associates know they are valued and appreciated.
1
2006 Great Place to Work® Institute, Inc.
22 connections fall-winter 2006
25. Focus on tools and processes: Health Net is improving ance reviews, while others are online like the TALEO
its tools to manage our work and support our people. staffing system. COMPASS will link all of this together
Many initiatives are facilitating greater performance electronically. Health Net will have a centralized,
and growth, as well as improving associate engagement. easy-to-use, desktop resource that lets us evaluate
• Examples: ITG’s Workstation Refresh Program; the the strengths of our people, provide development
new Macess.EXP electronic document management opportunities to grow their careers – and enable us
system; UNITY case management system; the to see what other talents need to be honed to make
TALEO applicant tracking system; Connections us great. There will be tools for managers, and tools
magazine and video capability on HN Connect. for all associates.
“Setting our 2007 goals using COMPASS is a key step,”
Look for more examples from the regions
Andy explains. “It will allow Health Net to capture,
in future issues. compare and share what we’re doing individually,
Next: COMPASS, our Talent Management within business units and across the enterprise – to
System ‘align our goals’ – so that we’re all rowing in the same
Having the right people … making sure we support direction and not duplicating effort.”
one another and our performance goals … developing Ultimately, this will help us make the best use of our
our skills … paying for performance … planning and associates’ talents and achieve our performance goals.
building for future talent needs – these are the Being able to identify and integrate associate
components of Talent Management. goals and clarify accountability is something
“Associates are our talent, and we need to be able associates have consistently mentioned in Health
to make the most of what you offer and your Net’s Annual Associate Survey. Addressing this
development potential,” says Andy Ortiz, vice concern also directly responds to recommendations
president, Talent Management and Leadership from the work teams from last year’s Leadership
Development. “To help us do that, this fall we’re Summit.
introducing Compass, a comprehensive, integrated This is another reason for associates to participate
Talent Management System. It will be rolled out in in the annual survey process – to make sure you
phases – we’ll all begin using Compass for our 2007 share your perspective and ideas about how to
goal-setting process.” make Health Net a Great Place to Work.
Right now, Health Net has separate tools, separate Look for more about COMPASS, the new Talent
processes for managing our people. Some processes Management System, on HN Connect.
are paper-based, such as goal setting and perform-
fall-winter 2006 connections 23
26. Defining what we stand for Community: Health Net and our associates care
about the communities they serve … How? Katrina
Walking the Talk relief support, contributions to the Pentagon Memorial
Health Net is demonstrating the value we place Fund, sponsorship of Celebration of Children, Kick It
on the lives of our associates, our customers and With Health Net in California, Habitat for Humanity
our communities. in the Northeast, United Way in Arizona, and many
Associates: We provide a wide range of benefits more. See page 8, We Live Here, Too, and Capturing
to meet associates’ diverse needs, including medical, Kindness at Health Net on page 2.
dental, life and disability insurance, PTO, a brand-
new online discount program to support work-life
balance, educational reimbursement, health club Health Net is determined to
reimbursement, referral bonuses, as well as a 401(k)
Savings Plan with match and new investment be a company with lasting
options. Enhancements to several of these programs
will be announced in 2007.
performance in the industry,
Customers: iBilling for Individual and Family Plan and companies that achieve
customers on www.healthnet.com is just the latest
example of our “customer solutions” strategy – to
this pay attention to those
become the health care company that uniquely who make it happen – their
understands and serves its customers with the
solutions they need. employees. Health Net is
committed to doing just that.
Imagine … here’s the associate experience we aspire to create by improving
our work climate and building our reputation as a Great Place to Work …
“The company takes care of the people, and “Management truly encourages and expects
the people in turn take care of the profits.” individuals to care for themselves outside of
“Personal and professional opportunities are work. They understand that quality personal
many. The company is always striving to improve lives contribute to doing a good job.”
itself and at the same time giving individuals the “This is a great place to work because people
motivation and encouragement to achieve their care about each other. It doesn’t seem so much
desires.” like work when you are surrounded by people
“Every morning I wake up excited to get to work who care about you as an individual.”
and do the best I can for a company that really “I feel I make a difference. My job allows me
appreciates it.” latitude to make decisions and implement them
“I always strive for the best results, but I am not in order to get the job done. At the end of the
afraid to make mistakes, which allows me to be a day, I can look back and see what I have been able
risk taker. I am able to explore my ideas at this to accomplish with a great feeling of satisfaction.”
company.”
24 connections fall-winter 2006