Publication details fines, complaints against AZ health insurers

Jodie Snyder

The Arizona Republic

Nov. 14, 2005 12:00 AM



Arizonans can find out more details about their health insurers, thanks to a new state publication.



The Arizona Department of Insurance has released a report listing fines and complaints filed against health insurers. It also lists the number of times consumers have filed appeals against insurers' decisions.



The report looks at the performance of 27 insurers representing 75 percent of Arizona's health insurance market.



Consumers can learn:



? Of the major health insurers, United Healthcare of Arizona has the highest number of complaints per enrollee. Other smaller companies have even higher complaint ratios. They include Fortis Insurance Co., (now known as Time Insurance Co.) and Mega Life and Health Insurance Co.





? Of the major health insurers, Humana Health Plan agrees with consumers' appeals more than any other insurer. Smaller insurers such as Mega tend to resolve fewer appeals in consumers' favor.





? CIGNA Healthcare of Arizona has had the highest number of fines in the past five years. It had three, worth $19,000. Four companies had no fines.





? Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Arizona is the state's largest insurer. United is second.



Erin Klug, insurance department spokeswoman, said the publication would be most helpful for small businesses and individuals who are shopping for insurance.



It might also be helpful to employees who have a cafeteria-style plan that allows people to choose among insurers, she said.