Aetna Kicks It Off

As part of an expected wave of consolidation, Aetna's deal to acquire Humana is valued at $37B.  And, it's a big one - the largest health insurance merger to date.

If approved by regulators, the merger will combine Humana's Medicare Advantage business and Aetna's diversified portfolio and commercial capabilities to create the second largest U.S. managed care company.  Some of the anticipated results include:

• Higher quality healthcare at lower cost; enhanced convenience for consumers
• Increased Aetna Medicare Advantage membership (to 4.4M)
• Enhanced Aetna pharmacy business
• Strong care management capabilities by leveraging best-of-breed provider solutions

Current Aetna Chairman and CEO Mark Bertolini will lead the combined company.  According to Aetna, the acquisition is expected to close by the summer of 2016.  >>Read more