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Hospital Merger Under Fire: Patients Face Access Issues
26 Jun
Summary
- Antitrust review assesses hospital merger's impact on competition.
- Patients report reduced access and worse experiences post-acquisition.
- Hospital CEO apologizes for negative patient experiences.
An antitrust review is underway in New Hampshire concerning Concord Hospital's 2021 acquisition of Franklin Hospital and Lakes Region General Hospital. The state's Attorney General's Healthcare Consumer Protection Advisory Committee is examining the merger's potential effects on competition, pricing, and quality of care.
Patients have expressed significant dissatisfaction since the acquisition, reporting a marked decrease in service accessibility and a decline in their healthcare experiences. One patient recounted waiting 23 hours in an emergency room, while others noted difficulties in reaching their providers and a lack of transparency.
In response to patient feedback during a recent meeting, Concord Hospital CEO Robert Steigmeyer issued an apology for the negative experiences. However, some affiliated doctors believe the acquisition has led to better access to capital and technology, improving care delivery. The committee aims to determine if the merger has reduced competition or increased costs.
