Insurers jab at Congress

Article Abstract:

The American Assn of Health Plans is launching a new television advertising campaign even as Congress struggles to reach a consensus on a patients' bill of rights. The managed care insurers' biggest objection to the bill is a provision that would remove a federal ban on most lawsuits against health maintenance organizations. One advertising spot refers to the Institute of Medicine, which has called for the mandatory reporting of medical errors to reduce patient deaths.

Advertising

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HMO to pay bonuses for good care

Article Abstract:

Blue Cross of California will pay doctors annual bonuses of up to 10% for meeting goals for quality and patient satisfaction. The company will drop its previous incentive program which rewarded physicians primarily for saving money.

Insurance, Insurance Carriers and Related Activities, Receipt of funds, California, INSURANCE CARRIERS, Use of Funds, Offices & clinics of medical doctors, Physicians & Surgeons, Offices of Physicians (except Mental Health Specialists), Brief Article, Blue Cross of California

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Prescriptions could cost workers $50

Article Abstract:

Prescription benefits manager Express Scripts has unveiled a new plan that would enable patients to pay less for some generic drugs but would have to make hefty co-payments of up to $50 for other medications. The plan aims to transfer patients to the lower-cost generics but would have to pay more for drugs not considered necessary for disease treatment or prevention. Critics say the plan may be too confusing to patients and would shift the burden of paying for medications from employers to consumers.

Product introduction, Express Scripts Inc., ESRX

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