This came from an Aetna:
Testimony was mixed. Highmark and IBC claimed that consolidation is necessary to remain competitive with large national insurers with access to capitalization. A number of policyholders and community groups spoke in favor of the merger. Speaking against the consolidation were a number of disparate groups. Providers generally opposed it, including an AMA lawyer who expects it to have a negative impact on competition. Some community groups opposed the consolidation, mainly because of concerns with inadequate social mission funding. Health insurers, including Aetna, opposed it or urged that any approval come with certain conditions. The Department will continue to accept public comments until the end of August, with a possible hearing taking place in September by the legislature’s Insurance Committees. While resolution by year-end is possible, the enormity of the proposal and the need for legislative involvement may tie it up until next Spring.
