Investigation Into Aetna’s Approval Process Expands Into More States
The inquiry kicked off after statements by a former medical director came to light that he never looked at patients' records when deciding whether to approve or deny care. Aetna says the comments were taken out of context.
CNN:
Aetna Inquiry Widens Over Ex-Medical Director's Comments
Three more states announced this week that they are opening investigations of Aetna after a former medical director for the insurer admitted under oath that he never looked at patients' medical records when deciding whether to approve or deny care. Colorado, Washington and Connecticut -- where Aetna is headquartered -- have joined California in looking into the statement, which came during a sworn deposition in a lawsuit against Aetna. California began its investigation recently after being told of the statement by CNN. (Drash, 2/15)
California Healthline:
California Judge Postpones Aetna Trial Amid Media Firestorm
A California judge has postponed a jury trial over whether Aetna improperly denied care to a Huntington Beach man with a rare autoimmune disease, saying the very recent and widespread media coverage of the case could jeopardize the insurer’s chance of a fair trial. The trial had been scheduled to begin this week, but Orange County Superior Court Judge John C. Gastelum set a new date of Aug. 20. (Ostrov, 2/16)