Insurance

Latest California Healthline Stories

Scrutinizing Aetna-Humana Deal

At a public hearing yesterday weighing the merits and drawbacks of the Aetna/Humana merger, the director of the state Department of Managed Health Care said she’s wary of health insurance consolidation.  

State Urged To Protect Consumers in Proposed Centene-Health Net Merger

Consumer advocates, contending that “health care mergers generally lead to … fewer choices, inadequate physician networks and higher premiums,” are urging state officials to protect consumers in the proposed merger of Centene and Health Net.

Under Review: How DOJ, FTC Decide Whether To OK Health Insurance Mergers

While some reviews last just 30 days, it could take antitrust regulators more than a year to approve or deny proposed mergers between Anthem and Cigna and Aetna and Humana. An antitrust law expert says that’s because the companies have significant overlap in business products and practices.

Supreme Court To Hear Case Deciding Fate of All-Payers Claims Databases

The nation’s highest court is scheduled today to hear a case that could decide the future of statewide health insurance claims databases, which are considered an important tool in improving care and reducing costs.

Disagreement Over Charity Contributions Simmers in Blue Shield’s Care1st Deal

Blue Shield of California said it is abiding by the language outlining charitable contributions in its agreement with the Department of Managed Health Care clearing the way for its $1.2 billion acquisition of Care1st. Consumer advocates say the insurer is reneging on a promise.