Which payers do physicians trust most?

Physicians generally say health insurance companies interfere with their ability to provide high quality care, according to a poll by ReviveHealth. The factor that influences this most is the amount of coverage plans provide and the number of claims denials, respondents said.

The overall sentiment among physicians was a broad mistrust of payers, with the national average trust score a 58.1 out of 100, according to the report. The survey measured physician trust in payers based on a plan's efforts to honor commitments, honestly and accurately represent itself and its intentions, and to not take advantage of physicians.

Here is how six major payers stacked up on the trust index, according to physicians surveyed. Scores are out of 100.

1. Blue Cross and Blue Shield — 60.5

2. Cigna — 58.6

3. Aetna — 58.2

4. Anthem/Wellpoint — 57.6

5. UnitedHealthcare — 57.1

6. Humana — 56.5

BCBS plans also ranked highest for enabling delivery of high-quality care, by 46 percent of physicians. "Best" rankings were based on customer service, administration and clear guidelines. United and Humana were considered the worst at enabling delivery of high-quality care by 26 percent and 16 percent of respondents, respectively. "Worst" ratings were generally based on relationship factors and payment rates.

 Correction: This article incorrectly stated the survey was conducted in partnership with athenahealth. The study was solely commissioned by ReviveHealth. We regret this error. 

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