Highmark hires ex-Aetna exec; South Dakota insurers propose double-digit rate hikes;

> Highmark has hired former Aetna executive Jay Godla to become its executive vice president and chief strategy officer, reported the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Article

> WellPoint is still considering former Amerigroup CEO James Carlson to become its chief executive. Although the insurer hasn't officially commented on its CEO search, it will likely announce a decision by its Feb. 28 analyst conference, the Indianapolis Business Journal reported. Article

>  Insurers in South Dakota are requesting rate increases from 10 percent to almost 40 percent. However, the state's insurance department has the authority to reject a premium hike if it doesn't believe the raise is justified, reported Aberdeen News. Article

And Finally… Sing for your health. Article