Coventry Healthcare’s acquisition of FirstHealth (closed 1/28/05) was viewed with some concern by FirstHealth’s workers comp payer customers. Several of Coventry’s key management staff came from organizations that had divested workers comp managed care SBUs, causing speculation (on this blog as well as among present FH customers) about the future of WC at Coventry.
Indications now point to a commitment to the WC business for at least the near and mid-term. Sources indicate Coventry senior management has met with some of FH’s key customers to discuss past issues, get input on future directions, and assure customers of Coventry’s commitment to the business. While this last point (assurance) may be viewed with skepticism, Coventry’s moves appear to indicate it is more than a platitude. These include
–Coventry’s search for a senior leader for the FH WC business, which will be separated from the group health business (now directed by Skip Creasy). They are looking for the right person with the right blend of credibility, understanding of the WC industry, and insights necessary to move the WC business forward.
–seeking input from present customers on general and specific topics ranging from candidates for the top job, to bill review technology, to gaps in systems, operations, customer service, and network coverage
–early indications the company is rethinking the acquisition and expansion strategy implemented by the old management staff.
–some evidence of increased flexibility in regards to customer requests for specialty managed care carve-outs and the like.
Perhaps most notably, Coventry’s decision to lop off the top managers at First Health sent a clear notice that big changes were to come.
I believe that is good news for present customers, as well as the rest of the market. A reinvigorated First Health may actually bring new approaches, new ideas, and a more flexible attitude to the industry, all of which are desperately needed.

The Workers’ Comp Research Institute has just published the latest edition of CompScope, their annual report on trends and comparisons across 12 states.
CompScope is used by regulators, managed care firms, and WC payers to assess the market environment in individual states. Some of HSA’s clients use this publication when determining market strategy, as it provides an objective comparison of key markets for comp.
WCRI also publishes their Anatomy reports, which are more detailed analyses of the medical and other aspects of WC claims in individual states. The Anatomy report has proven to be quite useful for claims execs and managed care professionals in the business.
WCRI charges for both publications.
Yes, I’m a fan of WCRI, but have no other affiliation.