Settlement Reached in Idaho Orthopedist Antitrust Case

Federal and state officials have reached a settlement with Boise, Idaho, orthopedists accused of antitrust practices related to workers’ compensation insurance.

Idaho’s attorney general and the U.S. Department of Justice accused the orthopedists of agreeing not to treat most patients covered by worker compensation insurance, driving up treatment rates.

They also are accused of agreeing to threaten to end their contracts with Blue Cross of Idaho to force better contract terms.

Included in the settlement is the Idaho Orthopaedic Society, one Boise practice group and five Boise orthopedists.

The proposed settlement prevents the orthopedists from agreeing with their competitors on fees and contract terms or collectively denying medical care to patients.