Archive for the ‘New York’ Category

Recently, the State of New York passed into law a statute which many trial lawyers and members of our industry are calling the “anti-subrogation law.” While the law may limit subrogation rights in the State, we certainly feel that the matter deserves more investigation. Over the past few months we at The Phia Group have been researching the issue and have created new procedures to protect reimbursement rights to the highest degree possible. All payers in New York need to seek out ways to protect their rights to pursue reimbursements for charges arising from third party responsibility. We want all of you to know that The Phia Group can help. Read more

The bill will eliminate subrogation and reimbursement rights for fully-insured health insurance plans in New York. The actual ramifications of this new legislation will not ne known until it has been tested in trial and appellate courts have had a chance to interpret the new law and its implications. Read more

An anti-subrogation bill attempting to bar subrogation claims related to personal injury is still pending and expected to be seen again in New York’s next legislative session.

New York took the drastic step yesterday of passing a law that eliminates subrogation and reimbursement rights for numerous lines of business. Last night the New York Assembly and Senate passed the anti-subrogation bill. Although the bill was passed by both chambers, they are technically awaiting on the governor’s signature.

Forty-seven states ban in-network providers from billing insured patients more than their required copayment or deductible and federal law prohibits providers from billing Medicare beneficiaries for unpaid balances. Some states also ban additional charges for insured patients who seek care from out-of-network providers and emergency departments. While national statistics on the practice are unavailable, economists and patient advocates estimate that consumers pay at least $1 billion annually for medical bills that they are not legally responsible to pay. Read more

New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo has announced an industry-wide investigation of health care claims consultant Ingenix, a UnitedHealth Group subsidiary, for manipulating reimbursement rates provided to their clients, such as BlueCross BlueShield. The investigation has exposed Ingenix’s intent to under reimburse their clients and members, and collect funds unrelated to relevant medical expenses for private gain.  Cuomo issued 16 subpoenas to insurers and benefit plans that have been affected by the conduct.  He also plans to file suit against Ingenix and its parent company, UnitedHealth Group. Read more