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.
Western Forum News
Montana Legislation
- Point of Service Option
- DCs Designated to Issue Handicap Parking Permits
With the help of the Montana Chiropractic Association, two new bills have recently been passed by the Montana legislature. House Bill 26 was requested by the state's insurance commissioner and mandates that all HMOs offer a "point of service" option benefit plan to each purchaser of a health care services agreement. By including this option, employees who are part of the plan have the choice to seek out or continue seeing their own doctor, rather than one associated with an HMO.
Senate Bill 282, which was proposed by the Montana Chiropractic Association, allows chiropractors to issue handicap parking permits. An interesting note about SB 282 is that it allows only chiropractors and medical doctors to issue handicapped parking permits. Osteopaths are not included in the bill, which went unopposed in committee hearings and was approved by the entire Montana Senate.