Independence Blue Cross Tests Biometric Devices

Independence Blue Cross is in the process of testing a wireless-enabled fitness device and apps that can be used to support wellness, the Philadelphia-based insurer reports.

The insurer is evaluating technology from Healthrageous, a company that offers a wellness platform that gathers and transmits data collected from wireless-enabled biometric measurement devices to provide a personalized wellness support programs.

IBC confirmed that it has begun testing Healthrageous in-house among its own employee population before it makes a decision to offer it to its health plan members. The insurer, which offers HMO, PPO, Medicare, and Medicaid plans that cover 3.2 million members, processes some 22 million claims per year.

The insurer has already taken steps toward wellness programs for its members, most recently with a mobile site called IBX that helps members find doctors, verify referrals, compare the prices of medications, track spending, view health history, and apply for a temporary ID card.

In December 2010 Healthrageous launched an iPhone app available direct to consumer via the Apple App Store. The app, called h!GO, aims to help users shed unhealthy habits and embrace healthy lifestyles. The app also aims to aid in the effective self-management of blood pressure and blood sugar. This mobile app is currently available to Healthrageous customers on devices including the iPhone, Android-based devices and Blackberry devices, said the company.