New legislation requiring hospitals, health systems, and medical practices to provide Attorney General George Jepsen with notice of acquisitions or changes in affiliation goes into effect on Oct. 1.
The law is in response to a rapid consolidation of Connecticut’s healthcare industry.
“Acquisitions and mergers often make business sense, and may lead to some efficiencies and more integrated care, but they also may lessen competition, leading to higher prices and fewer consumer options,” Jepsen said in a press release. “The notice requirement enacted this year will allow us to better monitor the healthcare market and, where appropriate, to enforce antitrust laws designed to protect Connecticut consumers.”
In an effort to make compliance as easy as possible, Jepsen’s office has posted a new form on its website with instructions on how to comply with the new law.