Governor’s Veto of Proposed Health System Merger Means Business as Usual For Pharma, According to a Recent Market Overview Now Available from HealthLeaders-InterStudy

January 11, 2012—Nashville, Tenn. —HealthLeaders-InterStudy, a leading provider of managed care market intelligence, reports that Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear has determined the proposed three-way merger of University of Louisville Hospital and Catholic Health Initiatives facilities Saint Joseph Health System in Lexington and Jewish Hospital & St. Mary’s Healthcare in Louisville should not proceed. The governor’s decision leaves pharmaceutical representatives’ relationships with the involved health systems untouched for the time being, according to the recently published Lexington, KY Market Overview.

However, University of Louisville Hospital officials say they plan to continue working on the deal with the same partners. A new version of the merger could be finalized by 2013, according to the report.

“While this consolidation could result in a shakeup of hospitals’ established drug formularies the possible creation of an accountable care organization or other care coordination effort as a result of the merger presents a silver lining to pharma, since these types of projects typically target prescription drug adherence.” said HealthLeaders-InterStudy Analyst Chris Clancy.

Other good news for pharma companies in Lexington comes from Kentucky’s new managed Medicaid program, according to the report. Participating managed care organizations have been directed to improve health outcomes for members with chronic conditions including diabetes, coronary artery disease, colon cancer, cervical cancer, behavioral health, prenatal care and oral health. This directive could lead to an even greater use of prescription drugs to keep patients well.

In addition to providing detailed analysis of levers and barriers in the market, the Lexington, KY Market Overview answers the following questions:

• Where does the concept of accountable care organizations stand among area health systems?
• Are consumer-driven health plans likely to see growth in 2012?
• What other benefit designs are local employers considering?
• Which health system has retail clinics located inside area Wal-Mart stores?

You can view an abstract of the report here:
http://hl-isy.com/Products-and-Services/Market-Overviews/Southeast/2011/Lexington,-KY-Market-Overview

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