Connecticut’s moratorium on new hospital mergers will last a bit longer. Governor Dannel Malloy ordered a temporary halt to more consolidation last February, when he appointed a panel to study the way the state regulates hospital mergers.
The moratorium was supposed to last until January of next year; now it will be extended to June 2017, to give the taskforce more time to conduct its evaluation. Yale New Haven Health is still waiting to hear the state’s decision on its proposed merger with Lawrence and Memorial Hospital in New London.
Insurance Department Argues Dismissal of ConnectiCare Suit
The Connecticut Insurance Department is arguing that the lawsuit from ConnectiCare, seeking an injunction to the department’s rate decision, should be dismissed. The department argues that the insurer could still be appealing within the regulatory system, before going to court. ConnectiCare has threatened to withdraw from the state’s health care exchange if its original rate request is not granted. Exchange CEO Jim Wadleigh said Wednesdayhe’s prepared to "adjust to that new landscape."
Pratt Engine Schedule Questioned
More pressure is on Pratt and Whitney to speed up deliveries of its newest engine. The world’s largest independent aircraft leasing company, AerCap, has raised concerns about whether delays in delivery of the PurePower geared turbofan engine could hold up its acquisition of a new Airbus jetliner. Earlier this week, plane maker Bombardier said it would have to reduce deliveries of its C Series jet because of delays in the engine schedule.
