"The high cost of many medical procedures in Alaska is driving a major insurance company, Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield, to offer coverage that pays air fare, hotel and other expenses for members to undergo the same treatment in Washington state at less cost.... The National Education Association Alaska health plan, with 17,000 members in 27 school districts, contracted with a company called BridgeHealth to find doctors and hospitals [outside Alaska] for such surgeries as knee and hip replacements and set up the trips for members who want the service ... Because of anticipated savings from this program, NEA Alaska members did not have an increase in insurance premiums this year[.]"

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