In a landmark development, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) has reached a $2.8 billion settlement to resolve antitrust claims brought by health care providers, including chiropractors. The lawsuit accused BCBS of dividing the nation into exclusive regions and limiting competition, which resulted in lower reimbursements for providers. Although BCBS denies any wrongdoing, the company agreed to the settlement to avoid lengthy litigation – and you can get a piece of the pie.
Internet Commerce on the Rise
A study released by the International Data Corporation finds that revenue generated from e-commerce (financial transactions that take place over the Internet) is expected to reach $400 billion by the year 2002.
IDC predicts the number of computer users who will purchase goods and services on line will rise dramatically, from 18 million in 1997 to 128 million in 2002. IDC also predicts that there will be 320 million people on the Net the end of 2002.
Reference
E-commerce to hit $400 billion. C/Net News ([url=http://www.news.com]http://www.news.com[/url]), August 17, 1998.