A coalition of health providers is asking Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley to reject a settlement with the state’s largest hospital and physician’s network. The coalition detailed their concerns in a Superior Court filing today.
Five nonprofit hospitals and physician groups are urging a Suffolk Superior Court judge to reject the proposed settlement between the Attorney General’s Office and Partners HealthCare System. The settlement would allow Partners to acquire more suburban hospitals but aims to limit cost increases.
“Because of that size, it gives them the incentive and ability to charge essentially whatever they want for whatever procedures anyone has at any Partners’ entity,” said Andrea Murino, the attorney for the coalition, which includes Beth Israel, Lahey Health System and Tufts Medical Center. The coalition is primarily concerned with cost increases.
Partners spokesman Rich Copp says the company remains focused on local care at lower costs.
“These competitor organizations, they’re not advocating for the public interest," he said. "They’re advocating for their own, private interest. There’s been strong support for this agreement.”
Hundreds of letters are pouring into the Attorney General’s office, both for and against Partners’ expansion. Public comments are welcome until September 15.
