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.
Pennsylvania Bill Allows Licensure of Resident SCASA Grads
When former Secretary of Education Lamar Alexander declared that SCASA would not be recognized by the government as an accrediting agency, it was a gut wrenching time for students at the SCASA schools of Sherman, Southern California, and Penn. Straight. What would be the fate of those students who weren't graduating before the secretary's deadline?
While the three SCASA colleges have applied for membership with the Council for Chiropractic Education, there are no assurances in this process.
In Pennsylvania, however, new legislation (H.B. 1416) sponsored by Rep. Mark Cohen (D-Phila.) allows SCASA students who are "bona fide Pennsylvania residents" to be eligible for the chiropractic licensing examination in Pennsylvania. The only stipulation: enrollment before the June 4, 1993 deadline, and graduating by the end of 1996.
"This law will prevent an injustice to those men and women who began their studies in good faith," stated Rep. Cohen, Democratic majority whip in the House. "It was totally unforeseen that they might not be allowed to remain in or return to Pennsylvania to sit for their exam and to practice.
The bill was signed into law July 2 by acting Governor Mark Singel.