There is one glaring blind spot among those debating health care reform--that doctors don't have to accept the same insurance as the hospitals in which they work, says NU Editor Sam Friedman in his blog today at www.NUSamSoapBox.com.

Insurance agents have won a critical change in the House Energy and Commerce Committee version of health care reform legislation.

Maria Sheffield plans to enter the race for Georgia insurance commissioner, looking to succeed her former boss, John Oxendine, who is running for governor next year, NU has learned.

Robert Benmosche, who this week came out of retirement to take over as AIG's CEO, drew high praise from many leading agents and brokers, although concern was cited about his lack of p&c insurance background.

California's top insurance regulator said he will "closely scrutinize" an anticipated request by insurers for a 22.8 percent hike in the benchmark rate for workers' compensation coverage.

Chartis Inc., formerly American International Underwriters, said it has named George Stratts president and chief executive officer of its Global Marine and Energy Division.

A London-based group that opposes extremism in the Middle East and Europe said pending U.S. legislation to beef up sanctions against Iran could impact Lloyd's underwriters.

Aon Corp. insurance brokerage said it is reorganizing its unit which manages captive insurance operations, and that action involves four appointments.