(Dallas, Texas, June 15, 2006) – ppoNEXT, one of the nation's premier and largest directly-contracted PPO networks, announced the continued enhancement of its national network with the finalization of a national radiology agreement with Care^IQ, the number one directed care network offering the nation's largest and most respected network of preferred medical imaging and diagnostic providers and facilities.

"Care^IQ has a relationship with over 50 percent of credentialed facilities and offers the most extensive network for medical imaging and diagnostic services in the country," said Lynn Littleton, ppoNEXT Vice President, Network Development. “It is our goal to provide our clients with access to high quality, cost effective providers that will reduce costs and transform patient care."

The Care^IQ network assures timely appointments, preferred rates and quality care, and manages the entire episode of care from appointment scheduling through reimbursement, leading to a timely recovery. For over 10 years, Care^IQ has been dedicated to providing the highest quality services and facilities available. Annually, Care^IQ serves over 70 percent of the workers' compensation, group health and automobile insurance industries. The company's technology, level of service and professional associates are unmatched in the industry.

About ppoNEXT:
ppoNEXT is a leading provider of nationwide healthcare management and network services. With its focus on providing consumers with the utmost in quality healthcare, ppoNEXT selects only providers and facilities of uncompromising quality and excellence. Based in Dallas, Texas, ppoNEXT offers clients access to over 450,000 physicians, over 3,700 hospitals, and thousands of leading ancillary care providers in key markets such as the Midwest, Texas, California, Florida, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. ppoNEXT serves self-funded employers, third party administrators, insurance carriers, HMOs, and various managed care firms. ppoNEXT also offers disease management, utilization review, case management, independent medical review and claims negotiation services through its subsidiary, NEXTcare Management.

For more information about ppoNEXT, please contact:
Aaron Means
Corporate Marketing
214.267.3358