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Research and Quality Improvement

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan has one of the largest repositories of health care utilization data in the United States.


We play a key role in bringing health care value to our customers and the community by utilizing our abundant source of data for health research and analysis.


BCBSM's analysis of local data has lead to successful partnerships with area health systems, health coalitions and community health initiative programs. We provide community leaders and hospital clinical and administrative leaders with information that allows them to serve as champions of change in a variety of hospital, health system and community settings.


For example, BCBSM aggregate claims data was used by a state agency to produce a report showing that physical inactivity costs the state nearly $9 billion a year in health care costs. The widely publicized report served as a starting point to encourage state and community agencies to get involved in activities to encourage residents to adopt healthier lifestyles.


Today, data management and clinical analysis of health care information are critical components of being a market leader. By providing those elements, the Blues positively impact the quality of care in the community and support our mission of excelling in the delivery of health care products and services.


In addition, BCBSM provides leadership in bringing key stakeholders together to address issues like patient safety and the consistent delivery of evidence-based medicine.

Featured Research Studies

To promote the progress of the science and art of health care in Michigan, BCBSM participated in the research and evaluation of the following topics: