OHIC denies Blue Cross’ Direct Pay Rate Increase
In an Order and Decision issued today, Christopher F. Koller, the state Health Insurance Commissioner, denied a rate increase requested by Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island for its Direct Pay subscribers. The requested rate increase, averaging 5.9%, would have been effective for all new and renewal coverage beginning April 1, 2009. In his ruling, Commissioner Koller cited two reasons for his denial: the inappropriateness of Blue Cross funding its reserves through Direct Pay subscribers and favorable enrollment trends among healthy subscribers driving down costs.
2009 Press Release Direct Pay
To view the 2008 Direct Pay rate filing documents, click here
