1718 Highmark Inc. d/b/a Highmark Blue Shield; direct pay Medicare supplement (Security65); Blue Cross of Northeastern Pennsylvania and Independence Blue Cross plan areas; rate filing no. 200322

Highmark Inc. d/b/a Highmark Blue Shield; Direct Pay Medicare Supplement (Security65); Blue Cross of Northeastern Pennsylvania and Independence Blue Cross Plan Areas; Rate Filing No. 200322

[33 Pa.B. 4375]

   On August 15, 2003, by filing No. 200322, Highmark Inc. d/b/a Highmark Blue Shield submitted to the Insurance Department (Department) for its review and approval increased rates for its Direct Pay Medicare Supplement (Security65) programs in the Blue Cross of Northeastern Pennsylvania and Independence Blue Cross plan areas. The proposed increase percentage is 16.28% in the Blue Cross of Northeastern Pennsylvania plan area and 22.25% in the Independence Blue Cross plan area, and an effective date of January 1, 2004, has been requested. Approximately 100,900 contracts will be affected, and the increased rates will generate additional annual income of approximately $16.200 million.

   Copies of the filing are available for public inspection during normal working hours, by appointment, at the Department's regional office in Harrisburg.

   Interested parties are invited to submit written comments, suggestions or objections to Michael Gurgiolo, Actuary, Bureau of Accident and Health Insurance, Insurance Department, 1311 Strawberry Square, Harrisburg, PA 17120, within 30 days after publication of this notice in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.

M. DIANE KOKEN,   
Insurance Commissioner

[Pa.B. Doc. No. 03-1718. Filed for public inspection August 29, 2003, 9:00 a.m.]