Benefitfocus announced that Premera Blue Cross has selected the BENEFITFOCUS(R) Platform for integrated decision support and online enrollment for new and existing employer customers. As a leading health plan provider in the Pacific Northwest and independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, Premera adopted Benefitfocus cloud-based technology for an end-to-end solution that allows customers to shop and compare benefits in an online marketplace setting. Premera will also leverage Benefitfocus claims analysis tools to help consumers explore plan options while providing more visibility into out-of-pocket costs.

The Platform will assist Premera in meeting 2014 healthcare reform requirements and position the organization to successfully handle expected shifts in the group market, support defined contribution models and remain competitive across multiple brands and states. Shoppers will be presented with the most relevant plans based on consumer purchasing patterns and tools to estimate costs based on expected plan usage. The Platform's integrated decision support tools, questionnaires and educational videos will provide a unique shopping and enrollment experience for employers and consumers with an increased focus on self-service.