OR insurer offers PHR, email discount

Oregon-based medical malpractice insurer Northwest Physicians Insurance Co. has taken a step which, though unusual, is likely to grow in popularity over the next year or two. The carrier, which is owned by a larger California firm, has decided to offer discounts to doctors who make use of PHRs and email to work with patients. Depending on which specialty they practice, the discounts can range from $375 to $2,250 per year, which could more than reimburse doctors for their investment.

Insurers can make that claim--that doctors are getting reimbursed for their investment--because they're asking physicians to connect using a specific service, iHealth, which includes PHR options, secure email and a practice website. The service will also offer safety messages to patients, including timely caution to patients if their drugs are subject to FDA recalls or warnings.

To learn more about Northwest's offer:
- read this Portland Business Journal piece

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