Allstate, Encompass settle suit over faulty medical bill review system

Allstate and Encompass have agreed to settle a class-action suit that alleged that they used a faulty computerized medical bill review system to handle auto and homeowners’ medical claims.  Read Story

Maryland gets $547,000 in nationwide fraud settlement with dental firm

Maryland will receive $547,423 as its portion of a multi-state and federal settlement with a dental management company accused of submitting bills to state Medicaid programs for medically unnecessary services performed on young recipients of the program.  Read Story

California surgeon faces up to 166 years in jail for bilking insurers

A California physician could be sentenced to 166 years in prison after his conviction for defrauding insurance companies by billing cosmetic work as “medically necessary” procedures.  Read Story

PurinaCare offering employers pet coverage as part of benefits package

Citing its own knowledge that “pet owners will go to great lengths to provide the best care for their pets,” PurinaCare has launched a group benefits department to help companies offer low-cost employee benefits for their furry friends.  Read Story

Relative of California insurance commissioner faces fraud charges

The second cousin of California Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner is accused of submitting checks for auto claims exceeding the amount required for repairs and pocketing the difference.  Read Story

CIGNA expanding individual health coverage outside U.S.

CIGNA International announced it will develop and offer its individual private medical insurance to customers around the globe.  Read Story

A New York-based subsidiary of holding company Trustmark Group has recently had its ratings assigned by A.M. Best.  Read Story

O’Malley wants insurance law changes to create new care program

As part of his 2010 legislative agenda, Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley wants to establish a framework in the state to develop patient centered medical homes (PCHM), a program his office says can, in part, “protect stakeholders from federal anti-trust challenges.”  Read Story

Virginia State Police seek insurance ‘Fraud Fighters’ nominations

The Insurance Fraud Program of the Virginia State Police is accepting nominations for the sixth annual Fraud Fighters Awards, honoring those who go the extra mile to stop illegal activity in the state.  Read Story

Companies who rent, lease or operate cranes are the target for a new program launched by Chicago, Ill.-based CNA Select Risk.   Read Story