Ranked Among the Nation's Best Health Plans

(GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - October 30, 2006)  U.S. News & World Report, collaborating with the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), released its annual rankings of health plans nationwide today. Priority Health was once again rated as one of the nation's best health plans, moving up to 13th place from a ranking of 19th last year.

This new ranking puts Priority Health in the top 5 percent of all health plans nationwide.

"We are thrilled with this recognition because it validates a shared vision and collaborative effort between employers, physicians, and Priority Health," said Kimberly K. Horn, president and CEO of Priority Health.  "Our work together is improving the quality of health for thousands of lives throughout the communities we serve."

U.S. News & World Report 's feature article "America's Best Health Plans" is also available online at www.usnews.com/healthplans. Each health plan was evaluated in four categories, including access to care, overall member satisfaction, effective delivery of preventive services, and treatment. Priority Health scored 4 points or higher (out of a possible 5 points) in each category. To view Priority Health's scores, users can click on "Commercial Plans" under "Rankings."

Medicaid plan ranks in top 10
In addition to a ranking of 13th for its commercial health plans, Priority Health's Medicaid plan was ranked number 10 of 192 plans nationwide. The ranking was based on the same judging criteria as commercial plans.