DOJ files antitrust civil complaint accusing OhioHealth of blocking patients’ access to affordable healthcare

The Justice Department and Ohio Attorney General have filed a complaint against OhioHealth Corporation, accusing the healthcare system of engaging in anticompetitive behavior that leads to high healthcare prices for patients. This legal action marks the first civil antitrust enforcement by the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division in about a year.

OhioHealth Corporation, one of Ohio’s largest healthcare systems, owns or manages 16 hospitals and outpatient facilities in the Columbus area. The complaint alleges that since 2003, OhioHealth has imposed contractual restrictions that prevent commercial health insurance companies from offering lower-cost plans to patients. These restrictions limit patients’ choices and hinder competition in the healthcare market, ultimately leading to higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs for patients.

According to the complaint, OhioHealth holds a 40% market share and has negotiated prices with insurance companies that are 50% higher than its competitors. This has raised concerns about the lack of affordability and accessibility in healthcare services provided by OhioHealth.

The Justice Department’s investigation into OhioHealth has been ongoing for several years and is part of a broader effort to address anticompetitive practices in dominant healthcare systems across the U.S. A similar case involving Charlotte-based Atrium Health was settled in 2018, highlighting the department’s commitment to enforcing antitrust laws in the healthcare industry.

Omeed Assefi, the acting assistant attorney general for the Antitrust Division, emphasized the department’s focus on promoting affordability and competition in healthcare. He stated that the enforcement agenda against anticompetitive practices is a top priority for the department.

OhioHealth has not yet commented on the complaint as they have not been served with it. This legal action underscores the importance of addressing anticompetitive behavior in the healthcare industry to ensure fair pricing and quality care for patients. The Justice Department’s efforts to hold OhioHealth accountable for its alleged anticompetitive practices demonstrate a commitment to protecting consumers and promoting a competitive healthcare market.