Viola

The issue in this case is whether the Department of Managed Health Care (Department) must reject health care service plans that include mandatory binding arbitration provisions. Plaintiffs argue such plans are in derogation of their right to civil jury trial, and must be rejected. They have sought judicial intervention to prevent approval of such plans. We conclude that plaintiffs are not entitled to the relief they seek because the Legislature has authorized arbitration of disputes under health care service plans and the governing statutory scheme does not authorize the Department to mandate a choice of forums. We shall affirm the order of the trial court denying relief.

FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL SUMMARY

The issue in this case is whether the Department may approve health care service plans in which the only method for resolution of disputes is mandatory arbitration. Plaintiffs contend the Department may not approve such a plan and sought judicial intervention to prevent it from doing so. We conclude that plaintiffs are not entitled to the relief they seek because the Legislature has authorized arbitration of disputes under health care service plans and the governing…