Markets or Monopolies? Considerations for Addressing Health Care Consolidation in California
December 2021
Katherine L. Gudiksen, Amy Y. Gu, Jaime S. King
Health Care Costs
Most California health care markets are highly concentrated, with hospital markets in particular approaching monopoly levels in many counties. Studies show that mergers of health care companies result in increased prices for services. This report compiles evidence about consolidation and provides potential considerations for policymakers.