Aetna Eyes Changes to Settle HMO Lawsuit

Aetna Inc., the largest U.S. health insurer, said it’s open to discussing changes in its managed-care plans to settle a lawsuit that alleges the company engaged in illegal business practices. The Wall Street Journal said settlement talks are being conducted in New York and have reached an advanced stage. An Aetna spokeswoman declined to comment on the talks. Aetna may agree to stop the use of financial incentives that plaintiffs contend reward physicians who restrict patients’ access to health care, the Journal reported. The company also may disclose discount arrangements with drug companies and fully disclose limits of its coverage to customers, the newspaper said. Hartford, Conn.-based Aetna fell $1.81 to close at $36.75 on the NYSE.