What the deal between Blue Cross of Vermont and Michigan means for local policy holders
Vermont Public
Vermont’s largest private health insurer, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont, is now a subsidiary of a much larger counterpart in Michigan. State regulators approved the new relationship last week. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan insures about 5.2 million people in Michigan and other states, while BCBS Vermont insures around 225,000 people.
What does the news mean for Vermonters?
VTDigger health reporter Kristen Fountain joined Vermont Edition Tuesday to talk through her reporting on the subject. The following transcript has been edited for length and clarity.
Mikaela Lefrak: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont is merging with another Blue Cross Blue Shield. What does that mean? Why does it matter?