More than a dozen people voiced varied opinions Tuesday during what was likely Tennessee’s final public hearing on the proposed merger of the region’s primary health care systems.
Tennessee Commissioner of Health John Dreyzehner and members of his staff listened intently as a clear majority of regional officials and residents expressed support for the Certificate of Public Advantage being sought by Mountain States Health Alliance and Wellmont Health System. Four people spoke against the merger, including a representative of the Federal Trade Commission staff, which has consistently opposed it.
The two health systems are seeking similar approvals in both Tennessee and Virginia, with a decision expected in September.
