US: AMA fears ‘Political Influence’ from Trump DOJ on Anthem-Cigna deal

The American Medical Association says it is “alarmed” that Anthem may be taking advantage of changes in leadership in the Justice Department that would “bend antitrust laws” and result in a settlement of the federal case that has blocked Anthem’s merger with Cigna.

The AMA, the nation’s largest association of doctors, vigorously opposed the proposed $54 billion merger with Cigna, saying the marriage of the health insurance giants would drive down doctor fees and provide less choice for patients.

In a letter to Acting Assistant Attorney General Brent Snyder that also was sent to US Attorney General Jeff Sessions, AMA CEO James Madara said he is alarmed by Anthem court filings saying the company “expects to close its merger transaction with Cigna through ‘resolution with a new DOJ.’”

“Moreover, an Anthem attorney stated in open court that the company believes that its prospects for a timely closing are enhanced by a ‘supportive’ Vice President Mike Pence,” Madara’s letter said.

In addition, a top contender to head the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division is a former lobbyist for Anthem who worked on the merger, Makan Delrahim. Anthem says Delrahim has not been involved in merger-related activities since he deregistered as a lobbyist in December.

Full Content: Forbes

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