Huge merger aims for East Coast; N.J. Blues consolidation leaves local doctors edgy

Article Abstract:

Anthem Inc will merge with Blue Cross/Blue Shield of New Jersey, creating a $9-billion integrated healthcare company with 11 million subscribers across the US. The merger is just one of many giant transactions that are adjusting the healthcare market on the East Coast, and many physicians who practice in the region voice doubts as to the benefits of such deals for the patient. They note that patients are often confused and frustrated when employers change health plans or provider networks, and they say that the enormous managed care plans may not tailor their services to individual communities.

Health care industry, Managed care plans (Medical care), WellPoint Inc., Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey Inc.

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Insurer-HMO mega-merger

Article Abstract:

Aetna's proposed acquisition of U.S. Healthcare is one in a series of huge mergers between healthcare insurers and health maintenance organizations. However, the $8.9 billion proposed deal would be larger than the other mergers, which include Wellpoint Health Networks' acquisition of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co's insurance division and United Healthcare Corp's acquisition of MetraHealth. The size and momentum of the merger deals and the interest they have spurred in the media are reminiscent of merger activity during the Reagan era.

Conglomerate corporations, Forecasts and trends, Insurance industry, Aetna Inc., AET, U.S. Healthcare Inc., USHC

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