PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- In recognition of its commitment to nursing education, Independence Blue Cross was presented the National League for Nursing’s Award for Public Service on October 1 at the league’s annual conference.
The award recognized Independence Blue Cross’ community support through its Nurse Scholars and Nursing Internship programs and Charitable Medical Care grants initiative. “IBC has become a community role model for health care plans nationwide,” the league said in announcing the award.
Independence Blue Cross President and CEO Joseph A. Frick accepted the award October 1 at the league’s annual conference in Baltimore.
“Independence Blue Cross is committed to the health and well-being of each and every one of our members,” said Frick. “We are honored to be recognized by an organization that shares our commitment to addressing the nursing shortage, which has a significant impact on the health care system’s ability to provide quality care.”
The Nurse Scholars Program has awarded $1.74 million in scholarships to more than 1,000 graduate students pursuing nursing education. The program addresses the critical shortage of nurses by helping develop additional nursing educators. IBC was the first health plan to support nursing education.
The Charitable Medical Care Grant Program offers financial support for non-profit, privately funded clinics in Southeastern Pennsylvania providing free or nominal fee care to the uninsured. A three-year commitment from 2004- 2006, the program makes grants available to support areas such as general operating expenses, unfunded pharmaceutical needs, medical supplies, specialty care, diagnostic tests, or other needs critical to the delivery of care within in the clinics.
About the National League for Nursing
The National League for Nursing advances quality nursing education that prepares the nursing workforce to meet the needs of diverse populations in an ever-changing health care environment.
About Independence Blue Cross
Independence Blue Cross is the leading health insurer in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Nationwide, IBC and its affiliates provide coverage to nearly 3.5 million people. For more than 65 years, Independence Blue Cross has offered quality health care products and services tailored to meet the changing needs of members, employers, groups and providers.
Independence Blue Cross
CONTACT: Liz Williams of Independence Blue Cross, +1-215-241-2220
