BLUE CROSS TO OFFER COMPLEMENTARY HEALTHCARE PROGRAMS

COLUMBIA, S.C. (December 1, 1999)-- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of South Carolina has signed an agreement with American Specialty Health Networks (ASHN) to provide discounted complementary healthcare programs for customers of Blue Cross and 4% subsidiary companies, Companion HealthCare, HMO Blue and Planned Administrators, Inc. The new program is called Natural Blue -- Holistic Health Choices.

Beginning January 1, Blue Cross members will have access to ASHN's credentialled network of chiropractors, acupuncturists and massage therapists throughout South Carolina and nationally. Members will receive services from participating providers at a 25% discount. Members also can join ASHN's national network of fitness clubs at a discounted price.

Rick Gallion, director of Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Blue Cross, said, "Natural Blue is a first step toward the integration of complementary and alternative programs with traditional medicine. Our Natural Blue program illustrates our commitment to providing more options that promote better health and wellness. We are excited to offer this service to our members."

Tom Faulds, president and chief operating officer of the company, Blue Cross division, said, "We are happy to be a leader in South Carolina in offering alternative programs to all of our customers, including Blue Cross, Companion HealthCare, HMO Blue and Planned Administrators, Inc. They have asked for access to complementary methods of healthcare. We listened and now Natural Blue will provide them with that access."

George DeVries, President and CEO of American Specialty Health Networks, said, "ASHN is very pleased to work with South Carolina's largest health insurer, Blue Cross. ASHN is committed to meeting consumer demands for complementary healthcare by providing high quality provider networks."

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of South Carolina is the largest health insurance provider in South Carolina and is the first in the State to develop a complementary healthcare program. Blue Cross, Companion HealthCare, HMO Blue and Planned Administrators, Inc. will provide their members with information about the network through newsletters and brochures. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of South Carolina is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

ASHN provides managed care programs nationwide to health plans, insurance carriers, employer groups and trust funds. It provides comprehensive services including utilization management, quality management, member and provider services, claims and credentialling. Its affiliate, American Specialty Health Plans (ASHP), is the nation's first and largest health plan for chiropractic and acupuncture services, operating in California. Together, ASHP and ASHN cover more than 13 million members nationwide.