Blue Cross of Georgia Ordered to Implement Corrective Action
By allegedly refusing to offer quotes for group health coverage to certain small business, as required under the Georgia insurance code and using sales agents that were not properly appointed, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia incurred a $600,000 fine.
Insurance Commissioner John W. Oxendine said he has fined Georgia’s largest health insurer for violations of state insurance law.
“Companies that refuse to offer quotes for health insurance are reducing competition by limiting the availability of health insurance to Georgia consumers,” Oxendine said. “Small businesses are the backbone of Georgia’s vibrant economy and I will not allow them to be taken advantage of by large insurance companies. Violations of the law by Blue Cross or any other insurer will not be tolerated in this state.”
Oxendine said as part of the agreement, the company must also monitor and record quote offers and requests for such quotes, and make all records available for ongoing examination by his office.
According to Oxendine, Blue Cross waived the right to a hearing in the matter.
Source: www.oci.state.ga.us