Regence BlueCross BlueShield opposes the provision, arguing to keep current law where private insurers have the option to deny claims for alcohol or drug treatment if it’s a result of a DUII or other conviction
September 6, 2012 -- A consumer-driven insurance plan is gathering momentum in Oregon. Not only will people have a chance to help design this new plan, they can also have a seat on its governing board.
“This is a health plan with a conscience,” said Dr. Ralph Prows, CEO of Oregon’s Health CO-OP. “Our purpose and mission is to keep our costs down. We have to start keeping healthcare affordable and intend to have the lowest administrative costs of any health plan. We’re trying to do the right thing and are not interested in making a profit.”
July 19, 2012 – Regence BlueCross BlueShield is starting to look more like a for-profit healthcare business – with a dash of venture capital thrown in for good measure.
April 25, 2012 – Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon's decision to slash mental health benefits and impose a much higher deductible for medical care and prescription coverage has consumer advocates upset. About 30,000 Oregonians who have individual policies will feel the impact starting October 1.
March 15, 2012—Legislation requiring state agencies to purchase their prescription drugs through the Oregon Prescription Drug Program (OPDP) once again was unable to overcome staunch opposition from the pharmaceutical industry and insurance lobbyists.
OPINION – November 22, 2011 -- Recent articles and blog postings have indicated some questions and confusion regarding our structure and recent internal capital movement. I hope the following will help clarify.
For many years, Regence has been structured as a nonprofit holding company system. This means that none of our capital is paid out to shareholders, but instead stays within the holding company system to grow and improve the business and to provide value to our members and the communities we serve.
OPINION – November 16, 2011 – I wanted to follow up on your article titled “Regulators Didn’t Question $56 million payout by Regence BlueCross BlueShield” because I am concerned the article is misleading and does not provide the public with accurate information.
November 10, 2011 – When state regulators approved a 12.8 percent rate increase for Regence BlueCross BlueShield earlier this year, they were aware that the insurer had dipped into its surplus account and given a $56 million dividend to its holding company just five months earlier.