To the editor:

Regarding Kathleen Sebelius’ denial of the Anthem Blue Cross acquisition, Ken Meyer writes (LJW 2/20/02), Sebelius ruled “in favor of the special interests (the Lawrence school district, the Lawrence Memorial Hospital, and the City of Lawrence) whose employees are not utilizing Blue Cross.” Please get the facts straight Mr. Meyer: My wife is a Lawrence school district employee and is most definitely covered for medical insurance by BCBS courtesy of the district.

I’d like to add that many folks (my wife included) are confused by the constant assertion that 64 percent of policy holders voted in favor of the acquisition. Firstly, signed ballots that were returned unmarked were counted as “yes” votes therefore, 64 percent in favor is misleading. Secondly, my wife is only one of many who never received a ballot in the first place.

Finally, if Mr. Meyer is concerned primarily about rate increases (as seems apparent), perhaps he should speak to those in other states whose BCBS plans have been acquired by Anthem. He will find that their rates increased dramatically to meet the demands for profit of Anthem shareholders. I say bully for you and thank you Ms. Sebelius for your courage and conviction!

Doug Burger,

Lawrence