Three words – simplify, assist, empower – capture the theme of this Annual Report. They convey a sense of CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield’s renewed commitment to customers as we move into the new millennium. We want to simplify our members’ interactions with the health care system at every opportunity. We will continue to assist members by providing them with the health care information they need. And, we seek to empower them to make the best possible health care choices for themselves and their families.

Three words also sum up the results of CareFirst’s performance in 1999 as set forth in this report: growth, strength and security. For that, we are indebted to our members, our associates, our networks of health care providers and our business partners.