Oscar operates in the healthcare realm. But it identifies as a tech company. “We use data, technology and design to make healthcare easier for employers,” explains Paul Gazeley, VP of customer care for the company he describes as a healthcare insurer and tech startup. “We believe if we help inform members about all their options and help them use the healthcare system whenever they need to, it leads to better care, more efficient care, and saves money.”
It’s built on a concierge model, with technology focused on enhancing customer service. Each member is served by his or her designated team of three care guides and one nurse, which will be the first point of contact for all his or her healthcare needs. “It’s a more personal approach to member services that’s powered by our proprietary technology and deep data analytics,” Gazeley explains. With data and technology at his fingertips, the care guide can familiarize himself with the member’s history and needs, to provide solutions to the issues — whether of an administrative or medical nature — quickly. Complex conditions are referred to the nurse on the team, who will also be proactively addressing with the member any chronic conditions that exist.
“Our vision is to create hundreds of new positions in the area over the coming years,” Gazeley says, noting that Oscar chose to locate here because the Valley has large healthcare and technology sectors and, therefore, an employee pool with the skill sets Oscar needs for its product. Oscar has been primarily in the individual marketplace, but is now targeting small businesses.
