Collaboration News
Baltimore Ravens and CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield Accepting Applications For 2026 Huddle Up for Health Grant
Focused on providing awareness and support to the community by addressing health disparities, the “Huddle Up for Health” program initiative stems from the over two decade-long partnership between the Baltimore Ravens (Ravens) and CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst). The program continues the ongoing community wellness and health equity initiatives established by the two organizations, while broadening focus to include other health challenges individuals face throughout Maryland.
Company News
UnitedHealthcare Eliminates Nearly Two-Thirds of Prior Authorization Requirements for Pediatric Care
UnitedHealthcare is removing two-thirds of authorization requirements for members under age 18 by year’s end. This move is the latest in a series of initiatives to simplify the healthcare system for providers and patients.
Making the Cut, Milestones, Accolades, Awards and More
Five Stars: Health Net Recognized by USA TODAY for Customer Service; Only California-Based Health Insurer Recognized with Highest Rating
Health Net, one of California’s most experienced Medi-Cal managed care health plans and company of Centene Corporation, has been named one of America’s Best Customer Service in Financial Services 2026, a national recognition published by USA TODAY in partnership with independent research firm Plant‑A Insights Group.
Product News
CVS Caremark delivers affordability and access to GLP-1 weight management medications with expanded coverage options
CVS Health announced updates to its most common commercial formularies, expanding GLP-1 options for members— including the reintroduction of Zepbound® (tirzepatide) as a covered medication. These changes build on Caremark’s industry leading efforts as a pharmacy benefits manager to explore all potential avenues that help patients get FDA-approved weight management medications at an affordable cost. Plan sponsors that adopt CVS Caremark template formularies retain discretion to customize coverage for their members.
Aetna reduces claims processing time by more than 20% with AI to improve care experience
Aetna®, a CVS Health® company, announced the launch of the second generation Aetna Claims Assist Manager (CAM), an AI-powered agentic claims advisor platform designed to streamline claims processing and improve payment accuracy.
To Read
WH Economists’ Report Underscores Bipartisan Agreement on Reining In Anti-Competitive Hospital Pricing by AHIP – Experts across the political spectrum agree that high and rising hospital prices are a key factor driving the healthcare affordability crisis.
Upcoming Events
AHIP 27
When: June 10 – 11, 202
Where: Las Vegas, NV
Registration coming soon.
LinkedIn: AHIP
AHIP 2027 is the premier forum for health plan leaders navigating the most high-impact strategic, regulatory, and operational decisions facing the industry today. Unlike broad innovation conferences or invitation-only retreats, AHIP 2027 is purpose-built for health plans—bringing together senior executives and the leaders responsible for strategy and execution to align on what’s next and advance solutions that improve affordability, access and patient experience nationwide.