Employers are seeking new ways to manage the rising costs of healthcare. For your self-funded clients in particular, SmartShopper offers a proven approach that encourages employees to make smarter, more cost-conscious healthcare decisions—which, over time, can help these clients lower their overall healthcare spend.
Real rewards promote real behavior change
SmartShopper is a healthcare shopping and savings program that rewards employees for selecting high-quality, cost-effective providers of routine medical tests and procedures, such as ultrasounds, MRIs, and mammograms. Employees who use the SmartShopper service can earn rewards ranging from $20 to $500—based on the overall claims savings. These rewards can help to reduce an employee’s out-of-pocket costs, encourage repeat shopping, and support a more cost-conscious mindset.
Proven engagement, demonstrated results
All Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI) fully insured large and small group plans include SmartShopper, with the exception of HSA-qualified high deductible plans*. For self-funded clients, SmartShopper is available as a plan enhancement—and offers a significant savings opportunity as well.
- $654 average claims savings per incentive
- $92 average reward per service**
Plus, SmartShopper offers:
- Proven engagement - This multi-channel program engages employees, motivates shopping, and redirects them to cost-effective care. SmartShopper delivers tailored messaging based on actual claims data and demographics. BCBSRI further promotes program use and increased engagement by offering employee-ready communications through the BCBSRI employer toolkit.
- Demonstrated results - SmartShopper empowers employees to become smarter healthcare consumers. Validated by claims data, the program measures actual behavior change that can produce real cost savings, not just website hits.
A simple, seamless user experience
Employees can access the SmartShopper platform through their myBCBSRI account—no need to download an app or remember another username or password. Once logged in, they simply select SmartShopper from the drop-down menu, choose a test or procedure, and compare results. All SmartShopper-eligible providers are indicated by a green box. The potential reward the shopper could earn is displayed as well. If they prefer, employees may also contact the SmartShopper Personal Assistant Team for a 1:1 concierge experience that includes assistance with shopping and scheduling procedures.
Contact your BCBSRI account representative to learn how your clients can get started with SmartShopper.
*The SmartShopper program is offered by Sapphire Digital, an independent company. Incentives available for select procedures only. Payments are a taxable form of income. Rewards may be delivered by check or an alternative form of payment. Members with coverage under Medicaid or Medicare are not eligible to receive incentive rewards under the SmartShopper program. SmartShopper is not available for BCBSRI’s fully insured HSA-qualified high deductible health plans, such as BlueSolutions for HSA.
**2019 SmartShopper book of business.