BRIEF: State insurance department recovers $4 million for consumers with coverage complaints

By The Idaho Statesman, Boise

Jan. 27--The Idaho Department of Insurance says it recovered more than $4 million for Idaho consumers in 2009.

Consumer affairs officers helped hundreds of Idahoans settle disputes with insurance companies, the agency said.

In 2009, the largest group of complaints -- 33 percent -- involved health insurance. They mainly concerned denied or improperly paid claims.

Auto insurance issues accounted for 19 percent of complaints.

In 2009, consumer affairs staffers answered more than 8,000 telephone calls and numerous e-mails and other correspondence from consumers, the department said.

Recovery amounts came from additional claim payments, overturned denials of benefits, reinstatements of coverage, cancellation of policies with the return of consumers' money, and various other causes.

Idaho consumers can call the department with questions or problems about their insurance by calling 334-4250 in Boise or (800) 721-3272 statewide.

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