Smart Choice MRI: Launches preferred provider program for self-insured businesses

Contact: Karen Mazzotta Mazzotta Public Relations
for Smart Choice MRI

karen@mazzotta.com

631-549-1580


Christine Herbst Named VP, Operations

Fourth Location to Open in Waukesha County Dec. 2014


MILWAUKEE, October 24, 2014—Smart Choice MRI, the first MRI provider in the country to offer high quality Magnetic Resonance Images (MRIs) to every patient for a flat rate, now offers self-insured businesses a preferred provider program that saves as much as 80% of typical MRI costs.



“The Preferred Provider program is just another way we are shoring up our commitment to redefining value, lowering costs and increasing transparency in today’s healthcare marketplace—all while providing the highest quality care,” said Rick Anderson, Smart Choice MRI CEO, who joined the company earlier this year.



Smart Choice MRI uses GE MRI technology and charges an all-inclusive flat $600 fee, regardless of insurance or self-pay. The firm is accredited by the American College of Radiology and has garnered an “A” rating from American Imaging Management (AIM), an independent evaluator of clinical imaging. All MRIs are read by board-certified radiologists from the Cleveland Clinic, perennially ranked among the nation’s best hospitals by US News & World Report.



In practical terms, the Preferred Provider Program gives self-insured employers the tools to message employees about quality and cost specifics surrounding MRI. Employers who self-insure pay for each employee claim instead of a fixed premium to an insurance carrier. With a typical MRI costing between $1500 to $3000, the Smart Choice MRI savings created by the flat-rate $600 fee is so significant that employers often incentivize their employees with gift cards or payroll reimbursements. Other preferred provider benefits include priority scheduling and greater access to preferred lunchtime and evening appointments.



“When 10% of an employee population can anticipate MRI use in any given year, according to the Wisconsin Hospital Association, the savings are significant,” says Anderson. “This is clearly a win-win for employer and employees—an innovative way to create better health outcomes and manage costs.”



Anderson also recently named Christine Herbst to the newly created position of vice president, operations. In this role, Herbst will help execute the brand’s management strategies to drive continued growth. Herbst has more than 14 years of experience in healthcare management and a proven record of accomplishment in managing complex business initiatives, increasing revenue, and taking clinical operations to the next level. Prior to joining Smart Choice MRI, Herbst was director of operations for Milwaukee-based Fresenius Medical Care where she successfully integrated five acquisitions ranging from a small hospital program to a 12-clinic, physician-owned practice. Herbst started her career in healthcare as a registered nurse. She received a BS in Nursing from Carroll College and an MBA from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.



Poised for continued growth, Smart Choice MRI is scheduled to open a fourth clinic this December 2014 in Waukesha, WI. At least four additional locations in select Midwest markets are anticipated for 2015. Smart Choice currently has locations in Milwaukee, Sheboygan and Richfield.



ABOUT Smart Choice MRI

Smart Choice MRI is the first MRI provider in the country to offer high quality Magnetic Resonance Images (MRIs) to every patient for a flat, all-inclusive fee of $600 which includes the cost of the scan as well as its reading by expert Cleveland Clinic radiologists. Founded in 2006 with the simple mission to provide consumers and employers a high quality service at an affordable price, Smart Choice is accredited by the American College of Radiology and is in network with major insurance companies, including United Health Care, Anthem and Humana. Headquartered in Milwaukee, WI, Smart Choice MRI has clinics in Milwaukee, Sheboygan and Richfield.