Cigna and Express Scripts' proposed merger gained approval from the Department of Justice's Antitrust Division Sept. 17.
The presidents and CEOs of both companies said they believe their roughly $52 billion combination will reduce healthcare costs, expand choice and improve the patient experience, including outcomes.
Completion of the transaction remains subject to certain state regulatory approvals and filings, and the satisfaction of all closing conditions. Shareholders voted to approve the deal Aug. 2, despite opposition from activist investor Carl Icahn.
The deal is slated to close by the end of 2018.
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