The decision comes as the insurers anticipate a court ruling in the U.S. government’s attempt to block the transaction. The Justice Department sued the insurers last July over concerns the acquisition would impede health insurance competition and increase consumers’ costs.
“Anthem’s election to extend the termination date is based on its determination that additional time will be needed to consummate the merger contemplated by the merger agreement, regardless of the outcome of the District Court’s proceeding,” Anthem wrote in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson has yet to issue a ruling on the case. The trial began Nov. 21 and ended Jan. 4, according to Reuters.
More articles on payer issues:
Medica CEO retires: 5 things to know
Allina Health, Aetna to create joint health plan
BCBS of Western New York, Roswell Park Cancer Institute ink agreement
