Business

Blues details fraud recoveries

NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted Sept. 5, 2005

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The BlueCross BlueShield Assn. says its member plans in 2004 saved or recovered a collective $228 million through the company's anti-fraud efforts.

The Blues, in an Aug. 22 news release, claimed its investigative units recovered $120 million in fraudulent claims, and prevented the payout of another $108 million in fraudulent claims.

All total, 663 cases last year were referred to law enforcement authorities, representing an increase of 14.7% over 2003, the Blues said. In those cases, 189 warrants and indictments were issued, an increase of nearly 17%.

Hotline calls received by Blues plans increased by more than 15%, to more than 80,000 calls, according to the Blues.

Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2005/09/05/bibf0905.htm.

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