Montana AG approves Blue Cross-HCSC merger; Wellmark updates mobile app;

News From Around the Web:

> Montana Attorney General Tim Fox has approved the merger between Blue Cross Blue Shield of Montana and Health Care Service Corporation. Commissioner of Securities and Insurance Monica Lindeen must approve the merger before Fox can decide how Blue Cross will spend the $120 million it is investing to a nonprofit organization as a condition of the deal's approval, reported KTVQ. Article

> Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield has released an enhanced mobile app that lets users access claims status, coverage details and flex spending accounts, The Gazette reported. Consumers also can view and email insurance cards, find in-network providers and talk to personal health assistants. Article

Health Provider News:

> To help combat the top stressors facing group physician practices, research shows doctors can stay together by prioritizing certain initiatives. Article

> Hospitals often offer incentives to motivate their staff into leading healthier lifestyles. But new research suggests these incentives could backfire if they appear to penalize staff for being overweight. Article

Health IT News:

> Online health communities can be powerful tools for addressing chronic care issues as the number of people afflicted with such ailments rises. Article

> Industry officials are warning that although electronic health record systems are improving healthcare quality, there's a long way to go for the technology to be optimal. Article

And Finally... Born with a silver spoon in your mouth? You really do have it better. Article