LifeMasters Supported SelfCare Inc has contracted with BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee to provide disease management services to its health plan members diagnosed with congestive heart failure (CHF), coronary artery disease (CAD), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes and asthma.

This comprehensive agreement is the first in the disease-management industry to cover five disease states.

"LifeMasters was selected because its disease management programs best meet the needs of BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee employees, members and physicians by accommodating a number of disease states with a proven record of success,'' said Dr. Steven Coulter, senior vice president and chief medical officer for BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. ``LifeMasters Supported SelfCare programs will offer nurse monitoring and support to patients between office visits with their own physician. The goal is to work with the physician and help these patients understand and better manage their disease.''

"We are proud to be part of BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee's commitment to helping its members improve their health,'' said Christobel E. Selecky, CEO of LifeMasters. ``Our programs offer a level of support that encourages patients to be more proactive about their own health care, and at the same time, provide their personal physicians with innovative monitoring tools, which allow them to make the best possible care decisions. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee's selection reaffirms our belief that actively engaging both the patient and physician delivers the best possible clinical and financial outcomes.''