The National Health Plan Collaborative: Overview of Its Origins, Accomplishments, and Lessons Learned

Publication Date: April 2009

Publisher: Mathematica Policy Research, Inc.

Author(s): Erin Fries Taylor; Marsha Gold

Research Area: Health

Keywords: Public-Private Partnerships; Data Collection; Disparities; Racial and Ethnic Minorities

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

The National Health Plan Collaborative (NHPC) was formed in 2004 to bring together national and regional health plans to reduce racial and ethnic disparities. This brief summarizes findings from Mathematica's evaluation, provides background, and describes accomplishments. It also reviews the NHPC toolkit, which the group used to disseminate its work. Many plans improved organizational commitment to reducing disparities but barriers remain. The current recession may hamper work as financial and other concerns receive higher priority. Moreover, most employers are not attuned to disparities and may become less so in light of current economic conditions. Nonetheless, opportunities lie ahead.