One of the largest health care settlements in U.S. history has left nearly $2 billion available for many people covered by Blue Cross plans between February 2008 and October 2020.
While the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and associated plans have denied allegations of wrongdoing, plaintiffs claim the plans violated antitrust laws by “entering into an agreement not to compete with each other and to limit competition among themselves in selling health insurance and administrative services for health insurance,” according to notices sent to plan members.
The lack of competition led some plans to charge higher rates for coverage, but Blue Cross Blue Shield asserts that its actions reduced health care costs and provided greater access.
A court has not decided the lengthy antitrust case, which was settled in a federal court in Alabama last year for nearly $2.7 billion. The defendants “agreed to make changes in the way they do business to increase the opportunities for competition in the market for health insurance,” according to notices.
About $700 million will likely go to attorneys, leaving roughly $1.9 billion available for subscribers during the eligible period. For more on the settlement, read here or call (888) 681-1142.
Subscribers who believe they may be impacted must make a claim online at www.BCBSsettlement.com, or by mail, by Nov. 5, 2021.
Dependents and beneficiaries are not eligible to receive payments. Those impacted during the 2008 to 2020 time period include individuals, insured groups and self-funded accounts, according to Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Former plan members could decide to opt out of the settlement and retain the right to file a separate lawsuit. They can also object to the lawsuit by sending a letter to the court, postmarked by July 28, 2021, or they can do nothing and receive no payment.
To make a claim or object by mail, write to Blue Cross Blue Shield Settlement c/o JND Legal Administration, P.O. Box 91390, Seattle, WA 98111.
In a hearing on Oct. 20, 2021, some impacted plan members will be given the chance to speak before the settlement is finalized before the end of the year.
Anyone with questions can visit www.BCBSsettlement.com or email info@BCBSsettlement.com.
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