The annual Blue Star Report recognizes contracting medical groups and independent practice associations that have documented high levels of performance in patient care. Medical group performance is measured in accordance with nationally based clinical practice and preventive care guidelines. The listing was published in the insurance company’s 2007 Fall newsletter, Blue Prints for Health. The report is intended to help HMO members make wiser decisions when selecting health care providers.

Bill Birch, Vice President of Operations at Dreyer Medical Clinic, said, “I was very pleased to hear that we have earned a perfect score again. As a Clinic we are dedicated to achieving excellence, so when our efforts are recognized, we know that it is our patients who benefit from superior care.”

Participating groups earn a blue star each time they meet or exceed the target care goal in each of the five reporting categories. At least 75 percent of patients with asthma were expected to receive a written asthma self-management plan. In 2006, 92 percent of Dreyer’s asthmatic patients received plans.

In 2006, at least 70 percent of all children turning two years of age were expected to receive all routine childhood immunizations in a timely manner, 85 percent of Dreyer patients turning two received their immunizations.

Dreyer has had a successful and comprehensive diabetes education management program in place for several years. It was the first in the Fox Valley to be certified by the American Diabetes Association. Patients receive annual dilated eye exams, depression screening, measurement of hemoglobin A1c, nephropathy screening, and maintenance of LDL cholesterol under 130. Dreyer has consistently exceeded Blue Cross network goals in all areas.

At least 65 percent of patients with a mental health hospital admission were expected to have a follow-up visit within 30 days after discharge. Dreyer exceeded this goal with 71 percent of patients having a follow-up visit within that time period.

New to the Blue Star Report in 2007 is breast cancer screening for female members between the ages of 42 and 69. This new category requires 60 percent of all women to have a mammogram within a two-year period. Dreyer also met this goal with 79 percent of female patients screened.

Founded by Dr. John W. Dreyer in 1922, Dreyer began as a two-person practice and has grown to more than 140 physicians offering 26 specialties at 12 different locations. Dreyer’s tradition was originally established to provide each patient with progressive and cost-effective care while showing sensitivity to individual human need. Communities with Dreyer sites include Aurora (5), Batavia (2), St. Charles, Oswego, Yorkville, Plainfield, and Hinckley.