Midland County has won a $933,052 jury verdict against Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan over allegations that it billed the county hidden fees to administer its health benefits.
The Dec. 17 verdict is the latest in a wave of lawsuits and judgments across the state filed by Troy attorney Bill Horton, accusing the insurance giant of pocketing millions of dollars in hidden fees from local governments and others to administer health care plans.
Blue Cross, Michigan’s largest insurer, vehemently denies the charges, saying its practices were well-known to the plaintiffs, are common in the industry and have saved millions of dollars for these employers, which continue to contract with the Blues to run their health plans. The company is considering appeals.
This is the fourth verdict against Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan in the past twelve months. Mr. Horton has represented multiple counties and municipalities in the dispute over undisclosed fees. Mr. Horton has been engaged my multiple municipalities in Michigan to pursue similar cases.
