Pathology gap fees could increase if Healius takeover proceeds: ACCC
The competition watchdog has published a 30-page Statement of Issues regarding a proposed takeover of Healius Pathology.
The competition watchdog has warned that a proposed merger of Australian Clinical Labs and Healius Pathology could increase private billing, blow out turnaround times and financially punish GP practices.
The ACCC is analysing a $1.6 billion takeover bid from Australian Clinical Labs (ACL) — which the Healius board opposes — and has now released a Statement of Issues running to 30 pages.
“The ACCC’s preliminary view is that the proposed acquisition is likely to substantially lessen competition in the supply of community pathology services in all states and territories except Tasmania,” it says.
ACL says it conducts 12 million pathology tests a year and operates more than 1300 collection centres, although none in Tasmania.
