Pittsburgh-based UPMC is likely to face opposition from organized labor and federal regulators as it looks to finalize its merger with Washington (Pa.) Health System, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported June 25.
The two systems signed a letter of intent to merge June 20. A month earlier, SEIU Healthcare Pennsylvania filed an antitrust complaint against UPMC. The complaint alleged that the health system engaged in anti-competitive practices and abused labor.
During his time as attorney general, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro campaigned with SEIU members and clashed with UPMC.
Federal regulators could also scrutinize the merger. Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan has voiced concerns about the rise in healthcare mergers.
A UPMC spokesperson told the Post-Gazette that the system was "looking forward to working with the regulators — the attorney general and the Federal Trade Commission — to answer any and all questions they may have."