The health insurer said Wednesday that it has informed hospitals that treat WellPoint's 35 million members that it won't pay the hospitals for medical errors in 11 scenarios, including surgery on the wrong body part or for an object or medical instrument left in the body during surgery.

Other mistakes that won't be tolerated: catheter-associated infections and hospital-acquired injuries such as fractures, dislocations, crushing injuries and burns.

WellPoint says its stance should save money because medical professionals will have to be extra careful. Avoidable errors will now carry a price tag.

"Our primary focus is to help ensure that physicians and hospitals are using appropriate processes, technologies and strategies to address 'never events' and ultimately to enhance the quality of care delivered to hospitalized patients," said Sam Nussbaum, WellPoint executive vice president of clinical health policy and chief medical officer.

In a news release, the president of the National Patient Safety Foundation praised WellPoint's initiative, which is in its first stage. Diane Pinakiewicz called the move "commendable" and a proactive way of ensuring patient safety.

One client is already praising WellPoint for its stance.

"It is critical that the entire health care system be looking for ways to improve safety and reduce harmful medical mistakes," says Bruce Bradley, a General Motors health care director. GM thanked WellPoint for "implementing policies to help eliminate these costly adverse events."

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