ROANOKE TIMES

                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: TUESDAY, June 22, 1993                   TAG: 9306220092
SECTION: BUSINESS                    PAGE: B7   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: MAG POFF STAFF WRITER
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short


HEALTH INSURER LAUNCHES LIFE INSURANCE BUSINESS

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Virginia said Monday it has begun its operation in Virginia of Monticello Life, its new life insurance subsidiary.

The health insurance company said it's new unit is licensed to operate in 47 states and the District of Columbia.

Monticello Life expects to have increased employment opportunities in Roanoke and Richmond as its business grows, the company said..

Monticello will offer group life and disability insurance to Virginia customers in conjunction with the health products of the parent company.

It's products will be available for individuals as well as group accounts. Monticello will sell life, accidental death and dismemberment and short-term disability insurance products.

Executive Vice President Raymond M. Sisk said sales will be enhanced by the trend toward flexible benefit plans among smaller companies.

He said development of a life insurance company has been a goal of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Virginia for several years. The company's objective is to provide a full range of employee benefits products and services to Virginia employers.



 by CNB