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.
Alternative Health Care Law Repealed in Washington State
A federal judge in Washington state has ruled that the existing alternative care law should not apply to ERISA plans (approximately 50% of the health plans in Washington). The law required health insurance companies to offer "any category of provider" which would ultimately include at least one chiropractor in each plan. The ruling is expected to be appealed by State Insurance Commissioner Deborah Senn. If so, the law will remain in effect during the lengthy appeals process. This would obviously be a step backwards for all forms of "alternative care." For more information, visit the website of the Washington State Insurance Commissioner's Office at [url=http://www.wa.gov/ins]http://www.wa.gov/ins[/url].