AZ regulators fine Aetna Life, Health

PHOENIX — Arizona insurance regulators are imposing civil fines totaling $256,000 on two Aetna insurance companies for multiple violations that include failing to provide information to policyholders on appeal rights and outcomes.

Aetna Life Insurance Co. and Aetna Health Inc. are not contesting the fines imposed under consent orders announced Monday by the Department of Insurance, and Aetna is agreeing to implement corrective action plans.

The department says the orders stem from reviews of the companies' practices related to appeals, emergency claims, timely payment of health care providers' claims and grievances between 2004 and 2006.

Insurance Director Christina Urias says the violations directly affected policyholders and care providers.