Mother says wrongly insurer denied coverage

A Galveston County mother has sued a major health insurance company, alleging breach of good faith and violation of business over alleged denial of coverage.

Kirstin Walker filed a lawsuit on behalf of herself and her minor child Feb. 17 in Galveston County District Court against Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon, BlueCross BlueShield of Texas and Healthcare Services Corporation of Houston.

According to the complaint, Walker was employed by Banfield Pet Hospital in Galveston County and was covered by its employee insurance policy when BCBS-Oregon and BCBS-Texas mishandled insurance benefit claims requested by the plaintiff to cover medical services, without providing reason or explanation. The defendants knowingly misrepresented the policy, the suit states.

Walker suffered financial loss and severe distress due to repeated denials and delays of payments to which she believes they are entitled, the suit states.

Walker seeks $1 million in compensation for medical expenses and damages, attorney fees, expenses and costs. She is represented by attorneys Deanne C. Ayers and Julie B. Tebbets of Ayers & Ayers in Colleyville.

Galveston County District Court case number 15-CV-0149.