The settlement resolves for CIGNA HealthCare the issues raised in physician lawsuits challenging the claims payment practices of the nation's largest managed care companies.

Under the Court-approved settlement, CIGNA HealthCare is, among other things, offering multiple alternatives for monetary compensation to physicians who participated in the class action, simplifying administrative requirements and procedures, and instituting new business practices intended to make it easier for doctors to work with the company in meeting the needs of patients.

CIGNA HealthCare also is committing funds to a foundation governed by representatives of state medical societies.  The foundation will consider funding for a range of health care initiatives such as expansion of the database of health care information available to patients and providers, broadening consumer access to cost-effective health insurance benefits, and enhancing quality patient care.

In addition, CIGNA HealthCare is establishing a Physician Advisory Committee through which physicians can offer input to CIGNA on ways to enhance the delivery of health care and maintain a strong, cooperative relationship between patients, physicians and the company.

Information about the settlement agreement, including details about business practice innovations and improvements, can be accessed at http://www.CIGNAPhysicianSettlement.com.

CIGNA Corporation (NYSE: CI),  headquartered in Philadelphia, and its subsidiaries constitute one of the largest publicly owned providers of health care, disability, life and accident insurance benefits in the United States and selected markets around the world. Web site: http://www.cigna.com.