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Israel: Authorities consider labeling top hospital as monopoly

By  |  September 29, 2014

Israel’s Antitrust Authority is reportedly considering labeling a top hospital in the nation as a monopoly so it can get a handle on boosting competition in the health care industry.

Reports say the Soroka Medical Center provides more than half of healthcare services in southern Israel and is the Be’er Sheva’s only hospital. It’s market position may warrant a label of a monopoly.

If the Authority proceeds with the plan, it would be the first instance of a monopoly in the healthcare industry, reports say.

By declaring Soroka a monopoly it would allow the Authority to probe the hospital’s books and ensure the company does not abuse its market position, say reports.

Israel’s Health Minister Yael German proposed plans for a competing hospital in Be’er Sheva to be established by 2025.

Full content: Haaretz

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