Chrysler Won’t Pay Disputed Medical Bills

In what government officials say is an unprecedented move, Chrysler Corp. is challenging the quality of medical care provided to dozens of injured workers at its now-closed assembly plant here and is refusing to pay for it.

The care provided to workers by certain physicians in the Kenosha-Racine area was “inappropriate, unreasonable and excessive,” said David A. Lewsley, manager of worker’s compensation for the auto maker.

Chrysler has assured workers that they won’t be liable for unpaid bills and says its battle is with the doctors, not with the workers.

A former United Auto Workers leader said the union approved of Chrysler’s decision.