Posted 9/21/2023, 10:44:28 PM

FTC Sues Private Equity-Owned Anesthesia Company for Illegal Monopolization, Causing Major Price Hikes for Patients

FTC sued private equity-backed anesthesia staffing company USAP, accusing it of illegally monopolizing the Texas market over 10 years.
FTC alleges USAP's acquisitions of anesthesia practices led to egregious price increases for patients, tens of millions in excess costs.
Suit follows FTC chair Lina Khan's comments that agency would investigate anticompetitive practices among private equity-acquired companies.
FTC says USAP's reimbursement rates are double the median anesthesia provider rate in Texas.
Research shows patient costs rise after private equity firms acquire physician practices, including 26% increase for anesthesia after buyouts.

nbcnews.com

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