Earlier this month the Federal Trade Commission blocked the merger of the Kroger and Albertsons grocery stores. Press release HERE.
Why?
“The FTC argued that the merger would eliminate head-to-head competition between the top two traditional grocery chains, leading to higher prices for shoppers.”
OK, but what about hospital mergers?
“The FTC can't enforce antitrust laws against what it deems to be anticompetitive
practices of nonprofit groups.”
Additionally, “hospitals can apply for a Certificate of Public Advantage (COPA), which allows them to merge without running afoul of federal antitrust law. In exchange, the hospital agrees to state oversight of their prices, quality, and other metrics.”
So, when Health Systems merge, promising prices will
fall, we’re left holding their bag of . . . . !
Paper or plastic?
(Uh, oh. The above quotes are from something called 'Generative AI.' When I stumble onto 'Snarky AI", I'll know my days are numbered!)
Tips will return January 6th.
Have a
Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah.
