Senate Committee voted to oppose Blues’ merger today

November 20th, 2008

The Senate Banking and Insurance Committee voted 10-4 to recommend that Insurance Commissioner Joel Ario block the merger of Highmark Inc. and Independence Blue Cross.

Philadelphia Inquirer: Senate committee should recommend a rejection of Blues merger

November 19th, 2008

Today the Philadelphia Inquirer editorializes on the proposed Blues merger, on which Insurance Commissioner Joel Ario will soon make a decision.

House panel probably won’t provide input on Blues merger

November 18th, 2008

The Pennsylvania General Assembly’s Insurance Committee probably will not take any official action in favor of or against the proposed merger between Independence Blue Cross and Highmark Inc. when it meets tomorrow, reports the Philadelphia Inquirer.

House Insurance Committee holding discussion today about Blues merger

November 12th, 2008

The state House Insurance Committee will meet today today to discuss the proposed merger between Pennsylvania’s largest health insurance companies; Highmark Inc. and Independence Blue Cross. PCN TV will be airing the meeting live.

Blues merger update

October 8th, 2008

The CEOs of Independence Blue Cross and Highmark Inc. testified yesterday at a public hearing about the potential merger of the two health insurance companies.

Hearing tomorrow on Blues merger

October 6th, 2008

The last hearing on the Blues merger for this session is scheduled for tomorrow.

Another argument against Blues merger

September 25th, 2008

Today’s Philadelphia Inquirer features an op-ed by Tom Knox, a former Democratic candidate for mayor of Philadelphia, former CEO of UnitedHealthcare Pennsylvania, and planned candidate for governor of PA.

UPMC testifies at Blues merger hearing

September 24th, 2008

A representative from University of Pittsburgh Medical Center’s insurance subsidiary was among those who testified at yesterday’s Blues merger hearing in Harrisburg.

Update: Conemaugh and Highmark have agreed to a new contract

September 23rd, 2008

After a three month stand-off, Conemaugh Health System (which serves west central PA) and medical insurance provider Highmark have agreed on a new contract.

Blues merger hearings will be held today and Oct. 7

September 23rd, 2008

The Senate Banking & Insurance Committee has scheduled two more public hearings on the potential merger between Independence Blue Cross and Highmark Inc.