Unitedhealthcare Aquires Healthnet

And Then There Were Six.

With the acquisition of Healthnet by Unitedhealthcare, we are left with six health insurers to choose from in the NY Metro Area. Healthnet became a major player earlier this year with lower cost health plans than the other “guys.” It was refreshing to see an insurer that was offering quality health plans with reasonable pricing. I guess they were just trying to build their book of business to look attractive for potential buyers. Last month Healthnet was negotiating with Emblemhealth to merge as one company but talks broke off and they couldn’t come to terms. So Unitedhealthcare stepped in and purchased Healthnet.

Less competition, less choice of healthcare plans. This can’t be good for the consumer. Maybe Obama can help?