Thomas Friedman, Executive Administrator of the State Health Plan, joins The SEANC View podcast to explain the Lantern program, a new preferred-provider and tiered-access model designed to lower costs for members while improving quality and access.

We also discuss the recently approved preferred tiers by the State Health Plan Board of Trustees, efforts to protect rural access, early program results, and plans to negotiate better pricing with providers.

The conversation also touches on contract changes, the push for transparency and competition, and how these steps aim to reduce premiums and preserve funds for employee raises and retiree benefits, while keeping participation voluntary and focused on member choice.