ND insurance commissioner wants Blues changes

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BISMARCK, N.D. - North Dakota's insurance commissioner says he's ordered Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota to make changes after insurance examiners found excessive expenses paid with policyholders' dollars.

Commissioner Adam Hamm said the financial report raises questions about compensation, travel policies, investments and severance packages.

In a statement, Hamm said health care premiums are not for "expensive retirement parties, corporate jets, risky hotel investments or a compensation structure that rewards senior management regardless of (Blue Cross Blue Shield's) financial performance."

The Blues board of directors says it has been working to improve the administration of the state's dominant insurer. The plan included the firing of Mike Unhjem as Blues chief executive officer and a complete review of executive pay.

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