Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance Monica Lindeen praised the passage earlier this week of Senate Bill 84, that promotes lower health care costs through the "Patient-Centered Medical Homes" model.

The PCMH model places the focus on preventive care, increased access to health care and greater coordination.For those with long-term medical conditions, the Medical Homes model provides better care at a lower cost. The model has been successful in several states over the last 20 years.

The bill was created by a council made up of insurers, health care providers, and patient advocates. At its initial hearing on Monday, the bill had overwhelming support from hospitals across the state and major insurers such as Blue Cross-Blue Shield of Montana.

Jennifer McKee, Press Secretary for Commissioner Monica Lindeen

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