Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield faced backlash for a proposed policy that would limit coverage for anesthesia during surgeries. The policy was set to take effect in 2025 but was met with criticism from medical professionals, lawmakers, and the public. Critics argued that the policy jeopardized patient care by not accounting for complex surgeries. Connecticut Comptroller Sean Scanlon and New York Governor Kathy Hochul condemned the plan, leading to statewide reversals. Anthem cited “misinformation” about the policy and clarified that they will always pay for medically necessary anesthesia services. The reversal comes amid increased scrutiny of health insurer practices following the fatal shooting of United Healthcare CEO, Brian Thompson.
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