Possible merger plan setback for health insurers

[MichaelB]

Bloomberg reports this morning that two proposed mergers, Aetna - Humana and Anthem - Cigna, will be challenged by the US Justice Dept. U.S. Said Readying Suits Against Anthem, Aetna Insurer Deals - Bloomberg

U.S. antitrust officials are poised to file lawsuits to block Anthem Inc.’s takeover of rival health-insurer Cigna Corp. and Aetna Inc.’s deal to buy Humana Inc., according to a person familiar with the matter.

Just a rumor so far. If this happens as reported, there is probably less likelihood these insurers would leave some individual or Medicare markets in the upcoming enrollment period.

 

[gerntz]

Just a rumor so far. If this happens as reported, there is probably less likelihood these insurers would leave some individual or Medicare markets in the upcoming enrollment period.

why?