CMA's investigation finds deal could lead to unfair competition and higher costs for NHS

Article summary

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has found UnitedHealth’s £1.2bn deal to buy EMIS could reduce competition leading to a negative impact for the NHS, patients and UK taxpayers, following phase one of its investigation. The investigation also found competition could be incredibly decreased especially in the Population Health Management and medicines optimisation software markets, which ensure the safe and effective use of medicines. The CMA is also concerned the deal could affect services provided by Optum’s competitors and unfairly undermine competing businesses. This could affect NHS, as a customer, it will have fewer options and will be faced with higher prices and lower quality offerings.