Georgia healthcare systems abandon merger plans, avoiding FTC challenge

Dive brief:

The Federal Trade Commission has closed its investigation into the merger between Atrium Health Navicent and Houston Healthcare System following news the two abandoned their plans for a deal. FTC staff had recommended that commissioners challenge the merger on the grounds that it would have resulted in “significant harm” to area residents and businesses in the form of higher healthcare costs, the FTC alleged. The merger between two of central Georgia’s largest systems would also hamper investments in facilities, technology and expanded access to services, according to a statement on Wednesday.

Dive overview:

Acting FTC President Rebecca Kelly Slaughter said in a statement: “This is great news for patients in central Georgia. “

When the deal was originally announced, Atrium Health Navicent pledged to spend $ 150 million for Houston on …

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• Headline: Georgia healthcare systems abandon merger plans, avoiding FTC challenge
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