Grand Junction a microcosm of efficient healthcare

The small Colorado city runs a system that experts hope the nation can learn from. The innovative approach started with a nonprofit HMO that offers some free services and promotes preventive care.

By Nicholas Riccardi
LA Times

August 14, 2009

Reporting from Grand Junction, Colo.

At first glance, this city of 45,000 looks like so many others, a spiral of ranch homes, shopping centers and chain stores.

But to healthcare reformers, Grand Junction, Colo., is the land of innovation -- a place that provides high-quality healthcare at a fraction of the regular price.

The local HMO offers prenatal care to all women in the county. Doctors evaluate themselves partly on the cost-effectiveness of treatments they prescribe. Nurses often check on patients home from the hospital to help prevent relapses.

(More here.)