Brevard, North Carolina, August 14, 2025
News Summary
Mission Health and HCA Healthcare have settled an antitrust lawsuit concerning anti-competitive practices related to HCA’s acquisition of Mission Health. The settlement includes a $1 million donation to aid families with healthcare expenses and a commitment to maintaining the operation of Transylvania Regional Hospital for at least three more years. Despite the agreement, both organizations deny any wrongdoing. Community leaders have welcomed the outcome, emphasizing the importance of accessible healthcare following concerns raised during the lawsuit.
Brevard, North Carolina – Mission Health and HCA Healthcare Settle Antitrust Lawsuit
Mission Health and HCA Healthcare have reached a settlement in an antitrust lawsuit that was filed in 2022. The lawsuit raised concerns about anti-competitive practices following HCA Healthcare’s acquisition of Mission Health. The cities of Brevard and Asheville, along with Buncombe and Madison counties, were involved as plaintiffs in this legal action.
The terms of the settlement include a commitment from Mission Health to donate $1 million to create a charity fund aimed at assisting individuals and families earning up to 400% of the Federal Poverty Level with healthcare expenses. Additionally, Mission Health has agreed to keep the Transylvania Regional Hospital operational for at least three years beyond the initial ten-year agreement made during the acquisition by HCA Healthcare.
Despite the settlement, both HCA Healthcare and Mission Health have firmly denied any wrongdoing or violation of antitrust laws. The specific details of the settlement remain sealed by the court, a point of concern for some community members.
Community Response
The Mayor of Brevard, Maureen Copelof, expressed satisfaction with the settlement outcome, noting its significance for ensuring accessible healthcare for the community. Mayor Copelof highlighted the importance of addressing high-priority health needs for residents, as the lawsuit’s claims had raised concerns regarding healthcare availability since HCA’s takeover of Mission Health.
A council meeting in the City of Brevard is scheduled for August 18, where officials will decide whether to formally accept or deny the proposed settlement. This meeting is expected to be critical in shaping the future of healthcare services in the area.
Background Information
The antitrust lawsuit began in response to worries from local government officials about potential health service reductions and the influence of larger healthcare systems on local providers. The cities and counties involved in the lawsuit worked together to highlight perceived anti-competitive practices that could affect residents’ access to necessary medical services.
The acquisition of Mission Health by HCA Healthcare, which took place several years ago, was met with scrutiny as community leaders feared that the merger would lead to increased healthcare costs and a reduced quality of care. As HCA Healthcare operates in various regions, local concerns about the company’s approach to healthcare delivery have been persistent.
Stakeholders believe that ensuring the continued operation of Transylvania Regional Hospital is vital to maintaining healthcare stability in the region. With this settlement, community leaders hope to rectify some of the adverse effects reportedly stemming from the merger and improve healthcare options for residents.
Moving forward, it remains to be seen how the court’s settlement approval will impact the future of healthcare in Brevard and adjoining areas as local leaders continue to advocate for their communities.
FAQs
What was the main reason behind the antitrust lawsuit?
The lawsuit was initiated due to concerns about potential anti-competitive practices following HCA Healthcare’s acquisition of Mission Health, which could affect healthcare accessibility and costs in the community.
What are the key terms of the settlement?
The settlement includes a $1 million donation by Mission Health to establish a charity fund for those earning up to 400% of the Federal Poverty Level, along with a commitment to keeping Transylvania Regional Hospital open for at least three additional years.
What do HCA Healthcare and Mission Health say about the allegations?
Both HCA Healthcare and Mission Health deny any wrongdoing or violation of antitrust laws despite reaching a settlement.
When will the City of Brevard council decide on the settlement?
A council meeting is scheduled for August 18, during which officials will vote on whether to accept or deny the settlement.
Key Features of the Settlement
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Settlement Value | $1 million charity fund |
| Community Support | Healthcare expenses for families earning up to 400% of Federal Poverty Level |
| Hospital Commitment | Transylvania Regional Hospital to remain open for at least 3 additional years |
| Court Secrecy | Settlement details remain sealed |
| Antitrust Violations | HCA and Mission deny any wrongdoing |
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Additional Resources
- WLOS: Mission Health and HCA Healthcare Settle Antitrust Lawsuit
- HCA Healthcare Today: 49 HCA Healthcare Hospitals Recognized
- MSN: Mission Health and HCA Healthcare Settle Antitrust Lawsuit
- Wikipedia: Antitrust Law
- Google Search: Mission Health HCA Healthcare settlement
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