GNY expanding into Virginia, seeking new brokers

Greater New York Mutual Insurance Co. is expanding its presence into Virginia, the farthest south the regional insurer has ventured.  Read Story

New York publishes final version of broker compensation rules

Nearly a year and half of hearings, drafting and discussions has resulted in new compensation disclosure rules for agents and brokers in New York.  Read Story

Medicaid services, jobs could suffer under Rendell’s budget plan

Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell’s proposed budget, cutting hospital Medicaid payments by nearly $31.9 million, jeopardizes public health and jobs, according to one medical group.  Read Story

MIA advises insurers on cancellations caused by snowstorm

The Maryland Insurance Administration is advising insurance companies to “provide reasonable accommodations” to policyholders regarding cancellations caused by the second of two heavy snowstorms to hit the state.  Read Story

Economy, recession continue to hurt top health plans’ membership

Membership in the nation’s top health insurance plans fell by 1.3% in the third quarter of 2009, as the recession and high unemployment rates battered enrollments, according to a new report.  Read Story

Hewitt Associates has added participant advocacy services to its absence management solution, a move the company says improves the employee leave or disability experience through “a more holistic, personal touch.”  Read Story

Study: Wellness with fitness activities, rewards cut health costs

Fitness-related activities when coupled with an incentive-based health insurance wellness program can lead to lower health care costs, a new study finds.  Read Story

Anthem and its parent company, Wellpoint, appear to have answered health reform advocates’ prayers this week. Just as health care reform (read: health insurance reform) was on life support, Anthem, a national health insurer, filed a request to raise health insurance premiums for some residents in California by as much as 39%. Yes, thirty-nine percent.  Read Story

Former N.J. drugstore owner accused of fraud might avoid jail time

A former Sparta, N.J., drugstore owner is attempting to avoid a lengthy court battle by applying for a pre-trial intervention program.  Read Story

The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New York recognized six insurance companies as outstanding partners this year.  Read Story