Thirty eight employees of BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee were told today that their jobs in the TennCare division are being eliminated to cut losses in the government program, company officials confirmed tonight.
BlueCross spokeswoman Mary Thompson said 93 jobs in the 800-employee TennCare division are being cut. But 55 of those jobs already are vacant, she said. Among those targeted for layoff, a majority either have or are likely to find other jobs at BlueCross during the 90-day notice period for those losing their jobs, Ms. Thompson said.
The Chattanooga-based health insurer employs about 5,500 workers.
Last year, BlueCross lost $95.6 million from its three TennCare plans. The Chattanooga-based health insurer also has cut payment rates to many doctors and hospitals participating in its TennCare plans, BlueCross Senior Vice President Ron Harr said.
For complete details, see tomorrow's Chattanooga Times Free Press.