January 12th, 2009
The Times-Tribune yesterday published Part I of a five-part series on PA’s non-profit health insurance companies: Blue Shield operator Highmark Inc. of Pittsburgh, Capital Blue Cross in Harrisburg, Independence Blue Cross in Philadelphia and Blue Cross of Northeastern Pennsylvania in Wilkes-Barre.
In Part I, reporter Daniel Axelrod relates the story of a man, age 62, who retired from his job two years ago. He now pays 35% of his Social Security income towards his health insurance. Writes Axelrod: “Though Mr. Scull said he pays for his care with his life savings, he is worried he will lose it all to health spending before he dies.”
Mr. Scull, along with many patients and patient groups, want the Blues to use some of their billions of surplus dollars to lower rates for their customers.
“…despite the state’s landmark 2005 decision to set maximum surplus levels, consumer advocates still complain Pennsylvania allowed the surpluses to grow to $6.2 billion in 2007 from nearly $4 billion in 2003.
Some fear premiums across Pennsylvania will increase even more if the state insurance commissioner allows a merger between IBC and Highmark, which owns a 40 percent stake in two BCNEPA subsidiaries. The commissioner’s decision on the deal could come as soon as Jan. 27.”
Read much more at the Times-Tribune.
January 12th, 2009 at 12:27 pm
Dear Commissioner Joel Ario,
During the economic time of uncertainty that many are experiencing especially the elderly and individuals on fixed incomes, I propose to The Blues Plans Nationwide that they “freeze” all premium rates at 2008 prices for one year. They can draw down from their billion dollar surplus in Pennsylvania for example to cover any cost adjustments as they deem necessary. Additionnaly they need to “CAP” all subscriber co payments at one rate for 12 months regardless of provider care rendered.
Thank You,
Gene G. Veno
717.232.5762 ext 104
gveno@pachiropracticassn.org