BlueCare Tennessee recently wrapped a successful pilot for a mobile messaging platform designed to help the TennCare managed care organization connect more effectively with its members.
The mobile service, known as a ‘Wire’, enables BlueCare to send reminders to members about recommended health screenings and upcoming appointments. The messages are especially effective among younger BlueCare members, who are usually more comfortable with texting as opposed to traditional forms of outreach such as letters and phone calls.
“People can do so many things on their mobile phones now that it made sense for us to pursue a mobile engagement option,” said Brandy Matthews, outreach program manager for BlueCare. “This connection gives our members faster and easier access to their personal medical information.”
The messaging service was developed in partnership with Relay Network and launched in August 2017. To date, more than 158,000 members – 28 percent of BlueCare’s population – have signed up for the program.
Each message sent ‘over the Wire’ contains links to a secure, personalized website – members click on the link and log in to view health information, preventive screening reminders and more.
“Relay does not require customers to download an app, removing friction that can get in the way of an easy interaction,” said Brie Tascione, Relay’s chief marketing officer.
BlueCare plans to grow the TennCare-approved program in the months to come, with a continued focus on recruiting the teens and young adults who represent a significant portion of its membership.