Health
Do You Trust Insurance Companies to Prioritize Patient Care After Policy Reversals?

Do You Trust Insurance Companies to Prioritize Patient Care After Policy Reversals?
Here’s The Scoop
In a surprising turn of events, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield has decided to reverse a controversial policy change that would have denied anesthesia claims for procedures exceeding a certain time limit. This decision comes after significant public backlash, particularly from patients in New York, Connecticut, and Missouri who would have been directly affected by the policy.
Anthem’s initial move to implement this policy was met with widespread disapproval, prompting the company to reconsider. Janey Kiryluik, vice president of corporate communications at Elevance Health, Anthem’s parent company, acknowledged the misstep, stating that the communication about the policy was unclear, leading to its retraction.
Interestingly, even Democratic New York Governor Kathy Hochul, known for her progressive stance, criticized the policy, calling it “outrageous” and vowing to protect New Yorkers. Her reaction highlights a rare moment of agreement across political lines, emphasizing the importance of patient rights and access to necessary medical care.
The controversy surrounding Anthem’s policy coincided with the shocking assassination of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. This tragic event has sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with some users disturbingly celebrating the murder due to United Healthcare’s notorious reputation for denying insurance claims. The incident has led to increased scrutiny on health insurance companies, prompting several, including Anthem, to remove leadership information from their websites.
This situation underscores the critical need for transparency and accountability in the healthcare industry. It also serves as a reminder of the potential consequences when corporate policies are perceived to prioritize profits over patient care. As the debate over healthcare reform continues, it’s crucial for companies to engage with their consumers and ensure policies are both fair and clearly communicated.
What do you think? Let us know by participating in our poll, or join the discussion in the comment section below!

Dave
December 27, 2024 at 7:10 am
Despite the tragedy that claimed the life of United Healthcare, Americans don’t trust insurance carriers to do the right thing. They steal our money at outrageous rates just to make more profit. Ponzi scheme all the way
Jerry C.
December 27, 2024 at 7:12 pm
All health insurance – like all hospitals – should have to be non-profits, by law. No more profiting off the misery of others. No more $7 Tylenol tablets buried in your itemized hospital bill. And force American drug companies to give AMERICANS their cheapest prices, not Canadians or Indians or Chinese!
James G Christian
January 11, 2025 at 12:03 pm
They’re more worried about their stockholders than patients.