Insurer rating service now reports on Blues plans

Article Abstract:

Rating firm Weiss Research Inc. has begun rating Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans in addition to other insurance companies. Blues had been considered by many to be infallible until Blue Cross and blue Shield of West Virginia failed in 1990. Out of 65 plans rated, only five made the 'Weiss Recommended List' with grades of B+ or better on an A to F scale. Six plans deemed to be in serious trouble received grades of E or lower. The low-rated plans and the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Assn complained that Weiss used old data and rewarded reserves that were excessive for nonprofit corporations.

Management consulting services, Commercial nonphysical research, Evaluation, Services, Insurance industry, Health insurance, Weiss Research Inc.

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IRS loses test cases on small pension audits

Article Abstract:

The US Tax Court ruled against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in its efforts to recover $670 million by challenging assumptions under the Small Pension Audit Program. After long deliberation, the judge decided that retirement age of 55, interest of 5% and funding were reasonable assumptions. Eight representative pension plans were examined. Attorneys said the outcome shows actuaries and not the IRS should determine the assumptions for pension plans.

Finance, taxation, & monetary policy, Taxation, Cases, Pension funds, Defined benefit plans, United States. Internal Revenue Service

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A defibrillator on every corner? Influx of portable devices spurs look at cost effectiveness

Article Abstract:

The American Heart Association is promoting the installation of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in public places to increase cardiac arrest survival rates. Proponents say AEDs could potentially save 100,000 lives per year by decreasing the time between the cardiac event and defibrillator shock. Cost issues such as training continue to be evaluated.

Electromedical and Electrotherapeutic Apparatus Manufacturing, Electromedical equipment, Defibrillators, Management, Social policy, Location, Medical equipment and supplies industry, Medical equipment industry, American Heart Association

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