Ga. Commissioner Releases Public Service Announcement Educating Residents on Dangers of Bogus Insurance Companies

Georgia Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine announced the
launch of a public service announcement (PSA) that will inform consumers of the dangers of purchasing insurance policies from unauthorized companies.

“These bogus insurance companies sell policies that hold no value and pay nothing to the policyholder when a claim is made,” Oxendine said. “Consumers may often see offers from these insurers on telephone poles, direct mail and non-prime time
television.”

In Georgia, approximately 30 such companies have been reported to the Commissioner’s office. Fraud investigations by Oxendine’s office have resulted in closure of several of the bogus companies’ operations.

The PSA is sponsored by the Georgia Association of Health Plans and will run on television and radio stations statewide until June 1. The members of the Georgia Association of Health Plans include: Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia, CIGNA HealthCare, Coventry Health Care, Great-West Healthcare, Humana, Kaiser Permanente, and United Healthcare.

“The Georgia Association of Health Plans supports Commissioner Oxendine’s efforts,” said Kirk McGhee, executive director. “Our plans understand the need to provide Georgians with quality insurance coverage that meets their needs and upholds the
standards of the Commissioner’s office.”