California health plan faces fines of $1.33 billion

California regulators are expected to announce that they are seeking as much as $1.33 billion in penalties from PacifiCare as a result of widespread problems stemming from its takeover two years ago by UnitedHealth Group Inc. An investigation prompted by widespread complaintshas uncovered 133,000 alleged violations of state laws and regulations regarding payments for medical care. Physician and hospital groups have praised the action, saying many doctors were still having to fight to get paid on time and what they are owed.