FTC Files Lawsuit to Block New Jersey Hospital Merger (1)

The Federal Trade Commission sued to block a proposed merger between two New Jersey-based hospital systems, alleging that the deal would give the new entity leverage to raise consumer prices.

Hackensack Meridian Health Inc.'s acquisition of Englewood Healthcare Foundation would result in one hospital system controlling three of the six inpatient general acute care hospitals in Bergen County, N.J., according to Ian Conner, the director of the FTC’s Bureau of Competition.

Acquiring Englewood Healthcare Foundation would allow Hackensack Meridian Health to demand higher rates from insurers which, in turn, may lead to higher insurance premiums, co-pays, deductibles, or other out-of-pocket ...