HEALTH

HMO to Add Alternative-Medicine Specialists: Oxford Health Plans Inc. is expected to announce the addition of a network of alternative-medicine specialists to some of its health maintenance organizations, charting new territory for health-care companies. Norwalk, Conn.-based Oxford, which services the Northeast, said it will add a network of 1,000 chiropractors, acupuncturists, naturopathic doctors, massage therapists, yoga instructors, clinical nutritionists and registered dietitians, along with a division to sell herbs and other holistic devices. Patients will be able to go directly to specialists in the new network without getting the usual approval from their primary care physicians. “It’s really driven by member demand,” said Hassan Rifaat, manager of Oxford’s alternative-medicine division. Some analysts expressed surprise at the announcement.