Powder River Surgery Center and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming Launch Bundled Payment Program for Total Knee Replacement

Gillette, WY – May 20, 2025 – Powder River Surgery Center (PRSC) and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming (BCBSWY) are excited to announce the launch of a bundled payment program for total knee replacement surgeries.

The program officially launched May 1, 2025, and is redefining the care experience for patients undergoing unilateral total knee replacement procedures. A bundled payment program is a value-based care model where all the services related to a specific procedure (e.g., total knee replacement surgery) are grouped into one comprehensive price. Instead of receiving multiple bills for multiple visits from different providers, patients pay one simplified amount. This model encourages provider coordination, improves care quality, reduces unexpected costs, and offers patients financial transparency and peace of mind.

“This program is a major step forward for value-based care in Wyoming,” said Linda Bedwell, Director of Powder River Surgery Center. “By working directly with BCBSWY, we’re able to offer our patients a simplified, transparent, and high-quality surgical experience without the financial surprises that often accompany traditional billing models.”

What the Bundle Includes:

The bundled payment covers a comprehensive set of services, including:

• Surgeon and assistant surgeon fees

• Surgery center facility charges

• Anesthesia services

• Radiology and laboratory testing

• Pre- and postoperative office visits

• Up to 18 physical therapy sessions

  
  

The bundle spans a 100-day episode of care, from 10 days prior to surgery through 90 days postoperatively. Patients with BCBSWY coverage will receive a single bill from Powder River Surgery Center for bundled services and make one upfront payment for any coinsurance or deductible amounts at the time of surgery.

“We’re pleased to partner with Powder River Surgery to launch a streamlined payment process for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming members receiving knee replacement surgery,” said Kris Urbanek, Executive Vice President at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming. “This transparent approach makes it easier for our members to review their out-of-pocket costs upfront and provides one bill that includes pricing for everything from surgery to post-op physical therapy. It’s a big step forward to making health care costs more predictable and patient-focused.”

Learn more about the bundle here: https://www.powderriver-sc.com/bundled-care-program

About Powder River Surgery Center: Powder River Surgery Center is the Powder River Basin’s premiere ambulatory surgery center, offering eight surgical specialties and cutting-edge technology. Located in Gillette, Wyoming, PRSC is dedicated to keeping you active by leading the way in offering patient-centered surgical care.

About Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming is a community-based, not-for-profit health insurer and an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, providing access to high-quality health care coverage, services, and programs to help members make their best possible health care decisions. With nine locations across Wyoming, BCBSWY offers hometown service to residents and businesses and supports charitable organizations in communities around the state. Learn more at BCBSWY.com.