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
$200,000 Bequest to Western States Chiropractic College
Maxine Hampton, the widow of Dr. Donavon Hampton, who was a founding member of the ACA, donated $200,000 on his behalf to Western States Chiropractic College. Dr. Hampton (WSCC 1952) served on the college's board of trustees.
"My husband was always very grateful to Western States for giving him his start," Mrs Hampton said. "It was important to him to give back to the college to assure its continued success." The generous donation will help fund a building to be named in her late husband's honor.
Dr. Hampton, who passed away in November 1993, was a founding member of the Health Research Foundation, and served as president of the Alaska Board of Chiropractic Examiners. He received the Distinguished Service Award from the ACA.
WSCC President William Dallas, DC, called Dr. Hampton an exceptional man. "His contributions to Western States and the profession are a beacon to those who follow in his footsteps," Dr. Dallas said after accepting the gift.
Dr. Ravid Raphael, staff clinician at WSCC's clinic.
Chiropractic Gets Support from Labor in Oregon
A meeting of the Oregon Federation of Teachers, Educators, and Health Professionals (OFTEHP) saw the passage of a resolution supporting alternative health care. The resolution also was supported by the Oregon AFL-CIO.
Presenting the proclamation was Dr. Ravid Raphael, who represented the faculty of Western States Chiropractic College at the OFTEHP convention. Dr. Raphael said the resolution was important because it raises the awareness of labor leaders to health care choices.