’Hospital Wars’ in Boise Reflect National Trend toward Consolidation of Independent Physician Practices in Ways that Alter the Clinical Lab Testing Market
State and federal investigations into possible antitrust violations arising from provider consolidation could have implications for the nation’s independent medical laboratories
Physician-practice acquisition deals are drawing increased scrutiny from federal and state investigators concerned about possible antitrust violations. Because ownership of medical groups can play a role in how the owners decide on a medical laboratory testing provider, these anti-trust reviews could inhibit concentration of ownership by large hospitals or health systems.
Hospitals, private equity firms, and even health insurers are racing to buy up independent physician practices. At the same time, physicians are open to selling their medical practice and working as employees after the sale is completed. (more…)
