Prairie State Wire

Thousands of physicians, hospitals, and healthcare professionals are involved in a lawsuit against MultiPlan and several major insurance companies, including United Healthcare, Cigna, Aetna, Anthem, and Blue Cross Blue Shield entities. The case, known as In Re: MultiPlan Healthcare Insurance Provider Litigation, alleges that these organizations have violated federal antitrust laws by fixing prices for out-of-network medical services.

The Illinois State Medical Society (ISMS) and the American Medical Association (AMA) are among the plaintiffs in this litigation. The Washington State Medical Society has also recently joined the case.

Healthcare practices that have provided out-of-network services may be eligible to seek damages if the lawsuit is successful. Those interested in joining the litigation can either select one of the court-appointed law firms or hire their own attorney. Currently, there is no set deadline to join; however, it is recommended that interested parties act promptly.

Three attorneys have been appointed as co-lead counsel in this multidistrict litigation: Matthew M. Lavin of Arnall Golden Gregory (representing both AMA and ISMS), Hunter J. Shkolnik of Napoli Shkolnik Attorneys at Law, and Christopher A. Seeger of Seeger Weiss LLP.

For those who choose to work with the court-appointed law firms, it has been stated that legal fees will only be charged if a case is won. Additionally, potential plaintiffs can receive a free case evaluation by submitting an electronic form.

"Unless legal action is taken, physicians will continue to be coerced into accepting MultiPlan’s or its successor’s algorithms and be systematically underpaid for out-of-network services."

Individuals with questions are encouraged to contact the ISMS Legal Division by email.