FirstCare Health Plans Celebrates 30-Year Anniversary with Texas State Flag Flown Over the State Capitol

AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 13, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Thirty years ago marked the emergence of one of West Texas' first managed care organizations—FirstCare Health Plans. In commemoration of FirstCare's thirtieth anniversary and its deep Texas roots in the communities it serves, a dedicated state flag was raised over the State Capitol in Austin as recognition for its longevity.

"The Amarillo office opened in October 1985 and has since expanded to serve customers and members into a service area covering over 108 counties throughout Texas," says FirstCare President and CEO Darnell Dent. "Today, FirstCare has over 400 employees system-wide and we have grown into a network of more than 115 hospitals, over 12,000 physicians, and serve over 178,000 members," Dent said. "When you call the customer service number on the back of your FirstCare card, you'll speak to someone who lives and works in West Texas. Not many companies can say that anymore, but here in Lubbock—we can."

Today, FirstCare remains locally owned—by Lubbock-based Covenant Health and Hendrick Health System of Abilene—with local offices in Abilene, Amarillo and Lubbock, and headquarters in Austin, Texas.

Dent adds that, "We are not only proud of our employees' dedication to serving our members, but we're also grateful for what our employees do, outside the office, in the community. We have learned over the years, it takes more than a one-time service project to make a lasting difference where we live and work. And since promoting health and wellness is one of our core beliefs, it drives our community involvement. We're dedicated to helping Texans lead healthier lives—at home, work, or play."

So far this year, FirstCare employees have volunteered over 200 hours of their time to community-based projects. Approximately one-third of FirstCare employee voluntary hours are for school events and another third are for other local charities. Employees have contributed to the United Way, gathered toys for the Angel Tree, participated in blood drives, and have planned for a company-wide food drive this fall.

About FirstCare Health Plans
Our mission is to provide access to high quality, affordable health care through strong partnerships in the communities we serve. Since 1985, we've been serving the health care needs of members across North, West, and Central Texas. Today, our service area includes 108 counties, with local offices in Abilene, Amarillo, Lubbock, and corporate offices in Austin, Texas. We offer a wide range of HMO, PPO, HSA, and ASO products through a variety of programs, including small and large employer plans; state, federal and teacher plans; government programs; and the Health Insurance Marketplace. With the support of our owners, Covenant Health in Lubbock and Hendrick Health System in Abilene, we serve over 178,000 members. For more information, please visit www.firstcare.com.

SOURCE FirstCare Health Plans

Related Links

http://www.firstcare.com