The question of which jobs Blues would cut in a merger

0 Comments | Philadelphia Inquirer, The, August, 2008 | by Jane M. Von Bergen Inquirer Staff Writer

In recent months, Independence Blue Cross has steadily eliminated positions - six enrollment quality data analysts, eight enrollment specialists, two enrollment supervisors - 54 jobs in all, according to internal documents. The Philadelphia-based health insurer says the reductions have nothing to do with its proposed merger with Highmark Inc., of Pittsburgh.

Still, the cuts draw attention to layoffs certain to happen if the merger is approved. The merger would create the largest health insurer in state history and would lead to the elimination of 745 to 1,200 jobs, the companies have projected. The "Blues" say the job changes will contribute to $1 billion in efficiencies over six years - enough to increase coverage for the uninsured and to stabilize premiums. "Given...