Phoenix Healthcare of Mississippi, Inc.

Phoenix Healthcare Receives Approval for Mississippi Expansion
Business Wire, July 16, 1997
JACKSON, Miss.--(BW HealthWire)--July 16, 1997--The State Insurance Commission has approved the merger of two managed care organizations serving more than 11,000 members in Mississippi.

The merger, between Phoenix Healthcare Corporation of Nashville, Tenn., and Southeast Managed Care Organization (SEMCO) of Jackson, was effective on June 30. Phoenix officials said new plan identification cards and correspondence are being sent to all SEMCO policyholders informing them of the benefits of the merger.

With the merger, SEMCO becomes Phoenix Healthcare of Mississippi, Inc. The company is now the only health maintenance organization with all operations centralized in Mississippi. Dr. David N. Duddleston, a Jackson physician and SEMCO founder, will serve as medical director of the new organization.

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Phoenix officials said the decision to expand into Mississippi stemmed partly from SEMCO's performance and reputation. SEMCO was founded in 1993 by more than 300 Jackson-area physicians.

"When we decided to expand into Mississippi, we targeted SEMCO because of its reputation for excellent customer service, strong provider partnerships and a desirable benefits package," said Samuel H. Howard, chairman and CEO of Phoenix Healthcare Corporation.

"Those attributes attracted our attention because they reflect Phoenix's corporate philosophy. Phoenix can bring added expertise and resources to provide clients, members and providers with superior service."

A commitment to community-based health care and access to local physicians will drive the decisions made by Phoenix Healthcare of Mississippi, according to executive director Stephen G. Braden.

"Health care is a community-based business. We keep our members satisfied by responding promptly to their needs and by offering timely, efficient service," said Braden, a 13-year veteran of the managed care field. "Mississippi's operations will stay in Mississippi. Although the name has changed, it's still the same great people and service."

With its acquisition of SEMCO, Phoenix Healthcare Corporation now serves more than 80,000 members in two states.

CONTACT: Phoenix Healthcare of Mississippi, Inc.

Ted Cheatham, 601/956-2706

COPYRIGHT 1997 Business Wire
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