Here are five highlights:
1. Aetna officials stated the payer would “vigorously” challenge DOJ on its Humana deal, which is valued at $37 billion.
2. Anthem also said it would challenge the DOJ over its $54 billion merger with Cigna.
3. While payers have made moves to settle regulatory concerns including divesting shares, Attorney General Loretta Lynch rejected the companies’ efforts, claiming the efforts are “inadequate, incomplete.”
4. Antitrust officials claim the Aetna-Humana merger would control the Medicare Advantage market, causing many consumers to suffer high prices. However, the payers counter their coverage options would be cheaper than competitors and would have more high-rated plans.
5. Various medical and patient advocacy groups, including the American Medical Association, cheered DOJ’s decision to push a lawsuit.
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