LifeMasters Supported SelfCare

About LifeMasters Supported SelfCare

LifeMasters Supported SelfCare, Inc. was established in 1994, positioning itself as a provider of disease management services. The company was co-founded by Christobel E. Selecky, who also served as President, CEO, and Chairman of the board from 1996 until 2009. With a background in managed healthcare that began in the early 1980s at FHP International Corporation, Selecky brought extensive experience to the venture, having previously managed revenues of $2.4 billion as president of the FHP California Health Plan. Under her guidance, LifeMasters grew significantly, raising over $60 million in venture capital from investors including InnoCal Venture Capital and Intel Capital. The company expanded to employ more than 1,200 people and generated annual revenues of $130 million.

The firm's business model centered on offering interactive programs and coaching for individuals managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory illnesses. Health professionals engaged with participants via telephone to educate them, assist with monitoring vital signs and symptoms, and encourage greater self-management of their health. A key aspect of the service was to facilitate better communication between patients and their physicians by providing relevant medical information between office visits. This approach aimed to prevent unnecessary complications, hospitalizations, and emergency room visits. The company's client base was diverse, encompassing health plans, employers, provider groups, labor unions, and government entities.

A significant chapter in the company's history involved its participation in several demonstration projects with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). However, these projects led to financial strain. According to CMS, the disease management programs did not achieve the required success based on the agency's measurement methodologies. This resulted in LifeMasters owing CMS approximately $125 million for fees that exceeded the savings generated. Faced with this substantial liability, LifeMasters filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2009 to restructure its debts. Following the bankruptcy filing, Christobel Selecky was succeeded as President and CEO by George D. Pillari, a restructuring advisor, though she remained on the board of directors. Subsequently, LifeMasters was acquired by StayWell Health Management.