The following is a roundup of recent narrow network stories, beginning with the most recent.
1. Should narrow networks exist? South Dakota to vote in November
Narrow networks may reduce costs, but they also restrict patient choice.
2. Cigna, Blue Shield of California sued over narrow networks
Santa Monica, Calif.-based advocacy group Consumer Watchdog filed lawsuits against health insurers Cigna and Blue Shield of California alleging the companies misled consumers about the size of their networks.
3. Healthcare thought leader & futurist Bill DeMarco on 4 looming issues in healthcare
Bill DeMarco, MA, CMC, president and founder of Pendulum HealthCare Development, identified narrow networks as one of the looming issues in healthcare.
4. California bill addresses narrow network controversy
With a 52-18 vote, the California Assembly approved a bill aimed at limiting narrow networks in health plans in the state.
5. Anthem Blue Cross faces another lawsuit over narrow networks
A group of 33 Anthem Blue Cross members filed a lawsuit against the insurer in Los Angeles County Superior Court alleging the company misrepresented the size of its physician networks and the benefits provided under the plans it offered under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
More articles on narrow networks:
The healthcare spending slowdown is a global trend, but a local transformation
10 concerns and trends facing hospitals right now
Narrow networks help create value in a more regulated healthcare landscape