As the Anthem-Cigna antitrust case continues, Cigna defended the potential merger saying the $48 billion deal would provide Americans with increased access to affordable healthcare, the Hartford Courant reports.
Here's what you should know.
1. Both Cigna and Anthem said federal attorneys are using out-of-context quotes from internal documents to create a misleading image. Both insurers believe the deal would benefit the general insurance market by decreasing cost.
2. The federal government is afraid the acquisition would severely limit consumer choices as two major insurers merge.
The Department of Justice said the merger would eliminate a competitor from Anthem for large group coverage. Anthem has better prices than Cigna from hospital systems and doctors in several markets, but Cigna competes by "offering exceptional customer service, innovative wellness programs that lower its members' utilization of healthcare and provider-collaboration programs with hospitals and doctors."
The DoJ argues that Anthem has a reputation for poor customer service and is not as innovative as Cigna.
3. In court documents, Cigna reported its collaboration program with hospitals and physicians and its wellness program have been well received. It refuted claims that large group employers favor Cigna more than Anthem saying that the customers’ opinions differ.
4. The antitrust case will go to trial in November.
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