The medical association said Aetna may be limiting patient access to physicians. Aetna responded and disagreed, saying it is fighting on behalf of patients against “egregious and improper billing practices” of physicians which are driving consumer costs.
The California Medical Association is the largest physician group in the state with 35,000 members. Aetna, the nation’s third-largest health insurer, said it is limited in ability and willingness to negotiate with physicians with whom it has active litigation.
In February, Aetna filed suit again Bay Area Surgical Management and affiliated physicians, accusing them of overcharging the insurer $20 million in the last two year. The California Medical Association joined with the Bay Area Surgical in a suit again Aetna last month, alleging Aenta threatens physicians and patients who want to use out-of-network providers.
Both groups have denied claims.
More Articles on Coding, Billing and Collections:
County County Health System Expands Medicaid, Looks to Increase Revenue by 11%
AMA: 600 Procedural Code Changes for 2013
4 Tips to Maximize Revenue Margins
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.