A recently released, comprehensive study of patient care shows significantly improved care of patients with serious conditions. Premera Blue Cross, a Washington-based health insurer of upward of 1.3 million people, performed the study with several prominent medical groups across Washington. The 2005 Premera Quality Score Card measured preventive screenings, diabetes monitoring and treatment, use of cost-effective generic drugs and satisfaction with the thoroughness of treatment, along with several other variables.

New to the 2005 Quality Score Card are three scores that reveal not just how often patients receive evidence-based standards of care, but also the resulting effects on patient health. The study showed particularly improved care for diabetics:

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