On April 18, 2013, in an historic victory for the chiropractic profession, the Michigan Court of Appeals ruled that MAC lawsuits against Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) and Blue Care Network (BCN) could move forward as class-action lawsuits, meaning that damages could be awarded.
Michigan Association of Chiropractors (MAC) President Dr. Dennis Whitford was elated with the victory, which he called a "tremendous win and important step on the road to overall victory" in the lawsuits.
Background
On Feb. 12, 2013, the Michigan Court of Appeals (COA) heard oral arguments in the MAC's lawsuits against Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network. These lawsuits stemmed from the fact that Blue Cross and Blue Care Network have engaged in conduct that the MAC believes has been discriminatory toward doctors of chiropractic and our patients.
In April 2011, Ingham County Circuit Court Judge Paula Manderfield, in a very favorable ruling, granted the MAC's motion for "class certification" in these legal actions. Her decision meant that the cases would move forward as class action lawsuits. BCBSM and BCN appealed the case to the Michigan Court of Appeals.
What's Next?
BCBSM and BCN could appeal the COA ruling to the Michigan Supreme Court. While we wait to see that they will do next, our attorneys continue to pursue all possible avenues to resolve these serious concerns.
More information regarding chiropractic and the MAC can be obtained online at www.chiromi.com or by calling (800) 949-1401.
Source: Michigan Association of Chiropractors
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