EPA Awards Priority Health with National Exemplary Award

Priority Health recognized for its Asthma Management Services

(GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - March 6, 2007) Priority Health, one of the largest health plans in Michigan, was awarded the National Exemplary Award by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), for its overwhelming achievements in creating healthier living through its HealthyEncounters^SM Asthma Program. Priority Health received this recognition for its leadership in providing asthma education and awareness, and improving the quality of life for more than 8,000 people with asthma in Michigan.

"Priority Health prides itself on being a national leader in providing access to excellent and affordable health care," said Kimberly K. Horn, president and CEO of Priority Health. "It's rewarding to know our efforts to help patients manage their chronic conditions really improve the health of the people we serve and ultimately reduce medical costs."

Nearly 20 million Americans suffer from asthma and those who are unable manage this condition with appropriate medications, account for nearly 2 million emergency room visits each year. Asthma-related emergency room visits cost an average of $290 to $580 per visit. In six years, Priority Health's asthma program significantly reduced the number of emergency room visits for asthma by 26 percent, and increased the use of proper medications from 69 percent to 98 percent.

Priority Health's asthma program provides members with case management services, educational materials and community resources that help promote evidenced-based care and prevent risks associated with asthma. Priority Health supports its providers with education and incentives to provide quality asthma care. Priority Health will continue to utilize its strong community ties with local organizations to continue to reduce the risks of chronic illnesses.

About Priority Health
Priority Health is a nationally recognized health plan company based in Michigan. It serves more than 460,000 members with a broad portfolio of products including HMOs, PPOs, HSAs, Medicaid, and Medicare. Priority Health is a non-profit company governed by a volunteer board of directors. Dedicated to improving health and lowering health care costs, the company is consistently ranked among the nation's best health plans by the National Business Coalition on Health and the National Committee for Quality Assurance.