The Center for Plain Language, an organization committed to making government and business communications clearer, has recognized Anthem, Inc. with three separate ClearMark “Awards of Distinction” for making communication materials easier for its affiliated Medicare members to read and understand. Additionally, two of the three entries were honored as “Best in Category” at the Center’s annual awards celebration.

“According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, only 12 percent of U.S. adults have proficient health literacy,” said Marc Russo, president of Anthem’s Medicare programs. “Medicare, in particular, can be complicated. That’s why it’s so important to speak in plain language when possible so that members are able to better understand their benefits and manage their health. These awards show we’re taking significant steps in that direction.”

The communication materials recognized included an interactive Web tutorial that allows people new to Medicare to learn about the basics of the program at their own pace, a beneficial health program brochure, and a redesigned Welcome Kit for new health plan members.

This marks the third time in the past four years that Anthem has received at least one ClearMark award for its materials.

The latest awards were presented at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

Anthem affiliates are PPO, LPPO, RPPO and HMO plans with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Anthem’s affiliates depends on contract renewal.

About Anthem, Inc.

Anthem is working to transform health care with trusted and caring solutions. Our health plan companies deliver quality products and services that give their members access to the care they need. With nearly 71 million people served by its affiliated companies, including more than 38 million enrolled in its family of health plans, Anthem is one of the nation’s leading health benefits companies. For more information about Anthem’s family of companies, please visit www.antheminc.com/companies

About the Center for Plain Language

The Center for Plain Language is a non-profit organization in the Washington, D.C. area. The Center’s ClearMark awards further its mission is to get government and business to communicate more clearly with citizens and customers. Nominations for the 2015 awards will open on the Center’s website, centerforplainlanguage.org, in January.