UPMC testifies at Blues merger hearing
A representative from University of Pittsburgh Medical Center’s insurance subsidiary was among those who testified at yesterday’s Blues merger hearing in Harrisburg.
Phila. Inquirer: Blues Merger bad for Pennsylvanians
Recently, the Pennsylvania Insurance Dept. recieved a 192-page report from an independent health-economics consulting firm stating that competition, instead of a merger, of the Highmark Inc. and Independence Blue Cross would create lower premiums and lower-costs for health service providers. Today, the Philadelphia Inquirer editorialized that they couldn’t agree more with this report, which they call “basic economics and common sense.”
Rick Speese on Blues Merger & PHC4
Rick Speese, Executive Director of PA House Insurance Committee, on the Blues Merger, PHC4 from Danielle Kozich on Vimeo.
House Insurance Committee to hold Merger hearing Monday
The committee will hold a public hearing on the proposed Highmark/IBC merger on Monday, September 8, at 1pm in Chester County.
Insurance Department Notice – Conclusion of Comment Period for Blues’ Merger
Insurance Department Commissioner, Joel Ario, has posted his intention to close public comment for Blues’ Merger on September 30, 2008.
Upcoming Legislative hearings in Erie on Blues Merger and PA ABC
The House Insurance Committee has scheduled 2 hearings Monday and Tuesday in Erie. Monday’s hearing is on the proposed Blues’ Merger and Tuesday’s hearing focuses on the House Democrat’s PA ABC plan, to cover the uninsured.
Senator Mellow to make more on Blue Cross board than originally announced
The Daily Review reports today that Senator Robert Mellow(D-22) could recieve much more from his board position with Blue Cross of Northeastern Pennsylvania than initially announced.
Senator Specter questions proposed Blues merger
Senator Arlen Specter, R-PA, voiced his concern Thursday over the proposed merger of Highmark Inc. and Independence Blue Cross.
Consumers Union concerned over possible Blues merger
Consumers Union, a national conusmer advocacy group, plans to voice its concerns today during a public hearing on the proposed merger of Highmark Inc. and Independence Blue Cross, reports the Patriot News.
Inquirer editorial questions the benefits of proposed Blues merger
An editorial published in the Philadelphia Inquirer asks state Insurance Commissioner Joel Ario to make sure upcoming public hearings on the proposed merger between Highmark Inc. and Independence Blue Cross are “more than a dog-and-pony show.”