The proposed sale of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana to Elevance Health is off. Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple says his office received word last night from Blue Cross that it decided to withdraw its plan to merge with Elevance…
cut 9 (04) “…of this matter”
Temple scheduled a two-day public hearing on the proposed sale and it was scheduled to start this morning, but it has been canceled.

Several lawmakers expressed reservations about the sale. Blue Cross and Elevance Health made the case the acquisition will lead to more affordable care, a better overall experience, and improved health outcomes. Elevance says its resources can also bring better technology. But Shreveport Senator Thomas Pressly was skeptical…
cut 11 (09) “…technology issues”
Blue Cross’s CEO told legislators that Blue Cross could run into problems because health care costs are rising faster than the premiums it charges.

Willis Knighton Health is celebrating its 100th birthday and marking the occasion with a renewed commitment to northwest Louisiana. President and CEO Jaf Fielder says the facility was originally known as the Tri-State Sanitarium in 1924. It was a small suburban hospital on the outskirts of Shreveport.
Cut 6 (12) “…the state.”
Last year, Willis Knighton Health was ranked the number one hospital in the state by Newsweek magazine.

A New Orleans couple is being recognized for the second year in a row, as Louisiana’s Longest Married Couple by the Louisiana Family Forum. Ira and Margery Milan of New Orleans have been married for 82 years. President Gene Mills says the Milan’s story is one of love, faith, and joy.
Cut 3 (13) “…more children.”
Ira and Margery are both over 100 years old.